Deandre Ayton and Marcus Smart expected to opt out of player options
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 13, 2026, 4:10 AM
Last updated Jun 13, 2026
Former NBA executive John Hollinger predicts that Deandre Ayton and Marcus Smart will decline their player options and enter free agency this summer. Both players have had varying levels of impact with the Los Angeles Lakers this season. Ayton's inconsistent performance, averaging 12.5 points and eight rebounds, led to speculation about his future, while Smart has emerged as a key contributor despite doubts about his longevity. The decision could reshape the Lakers' roster as they look to retain other key players like LeBron James and Austin Reaves.
- •Deandre Ayton and Marcus Smart are likely to opt out of their contracts.
- •Ayton averaged 12.5 points and eight rebounds this season.
- •Smart showed promise as a key player late in the season.
- •Both players are set to enter free agency this summer.
- •Lakers have critical decisions to make with several key players.
- 4:10 AMYahoo Sports — John Hollinger expects Deandre Ayton, Marcus Smart to opt out
"Former NBA executive John Hollinger expects key Lakers players Deandre Ayton and Marcus Smart to decline their player options and become free agents.
Sources
External linksOriginal reporting and copyright belong to the linked sources. SportsNewsReport.com aggregates and links — it does not republish full articles.
Related Stories
Last 14 days
NBA•Sep 8, 2026, 3:28 AMCollin Sexton: Walker Kessler will 'have a huge impact' on the Lakers
NBA•Sep 8, 2026, 2:03 AMWhat is the case for the Nets extending Noah Clowney's contract?
NBA•Sep 8, 2026, 1:38 AMLakers Advised to Pull Back on Potential Trade for 10x All-Star After Major Report
NBA•Sep 8, 2026, 1:18 AMDid Marks Save Nets Future With Rockets Trade in 2024?
NBA•Sep 8, 2026, 1:09 AMWhat Would Cody Williams' Have been Role With Utah Jazz in 2026-27?
NBA•Sep 8, 2026, 1:00 AMHouston Rockets jersey history No. 31 - Tyrone Britt (1967)