PORTLAND, OREGON - FEBRUARY 03: Deandre Ayton #2 of the Portland Trail Blazers celebrates a 121-119 win against the Phoenix Suns at Moda Center on February 03, 2025 in Portland, Oregon. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Soobum Im/Getty Images) PORTLAND, OREGON - FEBRUARY 03: Deandre Ayton #2 of the Portland Trail Blazers celebrates a 121-119 win against the Phoenix Suns at Moda Center on February 03, 2025 in Portland, Oregon. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Soobum Im/Getty Images)

Deandre Ayton Thanks Trail Blazers & Sends First Message To Lakers Fans

Originally posted on Lakers Nation | By Ron Gutterman | Last updated Jul 3, 2025 1:03 PM ET

The Los Angeles Lakers have finally found their starting center in Deandre Ayton. The former No. 1 overall pick signed with L.A. on a two-year contract as a free agent after being bought out by the Portland Trail Blazers. Ayton initially had one year and about $35 million remaining on the deal he signed with the Indiana Pacers — and matched by the Phoenix Suns — four years ago.

Ayton’s time while on that four-year contract was best described as uneven. His tenure in Phoenix ran out when the franchise decided to trade him in what was effectively a cost-cutting move. And while he put up strong numbers in Portland, he was never able to impact winning.

But still, Ayton wanted to give a kind message to the Trail Blazers franchise and fanbase as a send-off after spending two seasons with the team. He did so via Instagram, ending it with a message to Lakers fans:

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by DOMINAYTON (@deandreayton)

While reports surfaced from the Trail Blazers after his buyout that did not paint Ayton in a positive light, it seems that — at the very least — he did not view Portland negatively. A farewell post like this certainly goes against some of the reputation that the big man has developed over the years.

And now, he gets a fresh start with the Lakers, where he’ll play alongside the most talented teammates and best passers he’s ever had. That alone could serve as motivation to get to work and hone in on specific skillsets.

Luka Doncic excited to play with Deandre Ayton

The Luka Doncic era appears to be in full motion for the Lakers as they’ve signaled that they’re setting up to build the team in his image moving forward.

LeBron James picked up his player option for the 2025-26 season and noted that he understands the Lakers are planning for the future, a sign that all parties involve know that this is Doncic’s team now. Doncic’s first half season in Los Angeles ended on a sour note because of their early playoff exit, but the trade was made with an eye toward the future anyway.

The Lakers have historically collaborated with their superstars on personnel moves, so it stands to reason that Doncic is looped into the front office’s plans for the summer.

So far, Los Angeles has largely sat out free agency, though it appears Doncic is on board with how they’re moving and is excited to play with Ayton.

This article first appeared on Los Angeles Lakers on SI and was syndicated with permission.

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