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

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 18, 2026, 3:09 PM

Last updated Sep 18, 2026

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

Summary

The Los Angeles Lakers have traded center Deandre Ayton to the Washington Wizards in exchange for guard Jaden Hardy and two second-round draft picks in 2031 and 2032. This move is seen as a key part of the Lakers' offseason adjustments, particularly after LeBron James's uncertainty regarding his future with the team. The Lakers are aiming to reset their roster after trading away many of their first-round picks. Hardy, now under an $18 million contract, could ultimately become a valuable asset due to the draft picks acquired, as the team focuses on a win-now strategy alongside Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

Market Watch

•Lakers trade Deandre Ayton for Jaden Hardy and future draft assets.
•Ayton's player option prompted the trade decision.
•Lakers pursue a full roster reset amid LeBron James's retirement considerations.
•Hardy's $18 million contract adds potential value to the Lakers.
•Future draft picks are crucial for Lakers' win-now strategy.

Latest Updates

3:09 PMYahoo Sports — Lakers' $18M under the radar offseason trade viewed as 'pleasant surprise' that sets up future

What they're saying

"
The Los Angeles Lakers have been making a lot of moves this offseason. However, the trade that is being overlooked the most is the one that brought in some valuable draft assets and kind of an unknown player.
— Yahoo Sports

Related Teams & Leagues

Boston Celtics Los Angeles Lakers Philadelphia 76ers Washington Wizards San Antonio Spurs NBA Basketball