Lakers’ Deandre Ayton among NBA free agency wild cards

The Lakers spent a couple of years searching for a reliable starting center. There’s at least a little evidence that Deandre Ayton was that guy.

But now, LA may have to convince him to stick around. Or maybe the Lakers will look elsewhere. Seems like we’re about to find out.

According to Eric Pincus of Bleacher Report, Ayton ranks among the NBA’s biggest potential free-agent flight risks this summer, largely because of a contract situation that could leave him weighing his options.

Ayton holds an $8.1 million player option for the 2026-27 season. If he believes there’s a bigger payday waiting elsewhere, he could choose to test the market.

If not, opting in and returning to Los Angeles may make the most sense.

Pincus suggested Ayton could also decline the option and negotiate a new deal with the Lakers, who would hold his rights. Either way, it sounds as though both sides will have decisions to make once free agency opens.

As for potential suitors, Pincus pointed to teams such as the Hawks and Bulls. Atlanta has Onyeka Okongwu but could still look for additional size, while Chicago has cap space and no centers currently under contract.

Of course, finding productive big men isn’t always easy.

Ayton averaged a double-double and provided the Lakers with a consistent interior presence. While he may never completely silence his critics, there aren’t many centers available who can score, rebound and run the floor the way he can.

Some Lakers fans are hoping for an upgrade. The Lakers themselves may be too. But you could do a lot worse than Ayton. And while everyone is talking about LeBron James, Austin Reaves and Rui Hachimura entering free agency, this is a situation worth monitoring too.