The Los Angeles Lakers have made a bold frontcourt move, acquiring 7-foot center Deandre Ayton in a deal aimed at fortifying their interior presence and balancing a roster that already boasts LeBron James and Anthony Davis. The transaction, finalized late Tuesday, sends a clear message: the Lakers are all-in on size, defense, and a more physical style heading into the 2025 season.
Ayton, 26, arrives from the Portland Trail Blazers after averaging 16.7 points, 10.3 rebounds, and 1.1 blocks per game last season. While his offensive skill set is well-rounded — with a soft mid-range touch and reliable post game — it’s his rebounding and rim protection that the Lakers covet most. L.A. has struggled at times to control the paint and provide consistent resistance against elite big men, a problem they believe Ayton can solve immediately.
“This is exactly the kind of presence we’ve been looking for,” Lakers GM Rob Pelinka said in a statement. “Deandre’s size, athleticism, and defensive instincts make him a perfect fit for the style of basketball we want to play.”
Pairing Ayton with Anthony Davis creates one of the most imposing frontcourt duos in the league. While Davis is expected to continue toggling between power forward and center, Ayton’s arrival allows him to play more minutes at the 4, preserving his health and maximizing his offensive versatility. LeBron James, entering Year 22, also benefits from the added size and rebounding, which should ease the load on the Lakers’ transition game.
Ayton, for his part, seems eager to embrace the spotlight of Los Angeles. “This is the kind of stage you dream about,” he told reporters. “I’m ready to protect the paint, run the floor, and help bring another championship to this city.”
With the Western Conference as competitive as ever, the Lakers’ move for Ayton signals an aggressive push to contend immediately. If the chemistry clicks, this acquisition could be the piece that transforms L.A. from playoff hopeful to legitimate title threat.
