Sources: Ayton opts in to Lakers; Smart declines
Key takeaways
- Ayton gave up $10 million of his $35.6 million contract to reach a buyout agreement with the Portland Trail Blazers last summer in hopes of reestablishing his value with a high-profile starting role on the Lakers.
- The former No. 1 pick signed a two-year, $16.2 million deal with L.A., with a player option on the second season.
- Ayton, who turns 28 this summer, spent his first five seasons with the Phoenix Suns followed by two in Portland before joining the Lakers last offseason.
Why this matters: a sports story that could shift standings, legacies, or fan conversations.
Ayton gave up $10 million of his $35.6 million contract to reach a buyout agreement with the Portland Trail Blazers last summer in hopes of reestablishing his value with a high-profile starting role on the Lakers.
The former No. 1 pick signed a two-year, $16.2 million deal with L.A., with a player option on the second season. Ayton averaged 12.5 points on 67.1% shooting and 8.0 rebounds per game in the regular season and 10.0 points and 9.6 rebounds in the playoffs -- including a strong showing to close out the Houston Rockets in the first round.
Ayton, who turns 28 this summer, spent his first five seasons with the Phoenix Suns followed by two in Portland before joining the Lakers last offseason.