Lakers trade Deandre Ayton to Wizards for draft picks and guard Hardy

The Los Angeles Lakers traded Deandre Ayton to the Washington Wizards for two second-round draft picks and guard Jaden Hardy. This move follows the Lakers' acquisition of center Walker Kessler from the Utah Jazz. Lakers insider Jovan Buha revealed that the trade was driven by financial considerations and the need to put Ayton in a better position to regain his value. Ayton averaged career lows last season and previously signed a two-year, $16.6 million deal with the Lakers. Rumors also persist regarding potential trades involving Anthony Davis, who currently plays for the Wizards.

• 1:30 AMYahoo Sports — Lakers insider reveals real reason Deandre Ayton was traded