Deandre Ayton plans to exercise player option with Lakers for next season
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 28, 2026, 4:46 AM
Last updated Jun 28, 2026
Deandre Ayton is set to exercise his player option for the upcoming 2026-27 season with the Los Angeles Lakers. After an inconsistent 2025-26 season, Ayton aims to solidify his role and prove his value alongside Luka Doncic. His career, though marked by high expectations as the first overall pick in the 2018 NBA Draft, has faced scrutiny amid comparisons to peers who have excelled. Ayton's performance this season will be crucial, as the Lakers may consider his future based on his contributions and development.
- •Ayton joined the Lakers for the 2025-26 season.
- •He plans to exercise his player option for next season.
- •Ayton's role will be crucial next season alongside Luka Doncic.
- •He has faced criticism compared to other top picks from 2018.
- •The Lakers may evaluate trading him based on his performance.
- 4:46 AMYahoo Sports — Deandre Ayton is not going anywhere with his plans of exercising his player option
"Deandre Ayton seems prepared to stay with the Lakers for one more year.
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