Los Angeles Lakers’ Deandre Ayton opts into player option

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Los Angeles Lakers’ Deandre Ayton opts into player option

Originally posted on Ball Exclusives | By Pat Dowd | Last updated Jun 29, 2026 6:29 PM ET

Los Angeles Lakers big man Deandre Ayton will be returning to the franchise next season as he has opted into his $8.1 million player option according to Shams Charania.

The 2025-26 season was Ayton’s first year with the Lakers where he appeared in 72 games averaging 12.5 points and eight rebounds on 67% shooting from the field.

Los Angeles Lakers center Deandre Ayton is opting into his $8.1 million player option for the 2026-27 season, sources tell ESPN. pic.twitter.com/YCEkd3wgmj

— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) June 29, 2026

Ayton is the former No. 1 overall pick from the 2018 NBA Draft by the Phoenix Suns where he played the first five seasons of his career. He would later be traded to the Portland Trailblazers in 2023 and was released after just one season.

With Ayton opting back into his deal, he brings some more stability and affordability to a Lakers front court that hopes to entice LeBron James to return.

Patrick Dowd is a contributor for Ball Exclusives. You can follow him on Twitter, via Pat_Dowd77

This article first appeared on Ball Exclusives and was syndicated with permission.

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