League: NBA Sport: Basketball Country: United States Category: Trades

Lakers trade Deandre Ayton to Wizards in Luka Doncic-related move

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jul 4, 2026, 5:50 AM

Last updated Jul 4, 2026

Lakers trade Deandre Ayton to Wizards in Luka Doncic-related move

Summary

The Los Angeles Lakers traded Deandre Ayton to the Washington Wizards for Jaden Hardy and two future second-round picks. This decision follows the recent blockbuster trade for Luka Doncic, indicating a significant roster overhaul for the Lakers. NBA analyst Skip Bayless suggested that Doncic's lack of respect for Ayton influenced the trade, as he preferred Walker Kessler as a center. Ayton's performance during his lone season with the Lakers did not meet expectations, leading to the team's decision to move on from him as they reshape their lineup for the upcoming season.

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Market Watch

•Ayton has been traded to the Wizards for Jaden Hardy.
•Lakers aim to reset their roster after Doncic's arrival.
•Ayton signed a contract extension with the Lakers before the trade.
•Skip Bayless claims Doncic played a role in the decision to trade Ayton.
•Walker Kessler is expected to take on a key role as the team's center.

Latest Updates

5:50 AMYahoo Sports — Why Luka Doncic ‘lost all respect’ for Deandre Ayton before LA Lakers traded him, explains Skip Bayless

What they're saying

"
The Los Angeles Lakers are seemingly completely wiping the slate clean ahead of the 2026-27 NBA season. Since the blockbuster Luka Doncic trade, Rob Pelinka and the Los Angeles Lakers’ top brass seem keen on giving the Slovenian superstar a new team around him.
— Yahoo Sports

Related Teams & Leagues

Los Angeles Lakers Washington Wizards NBA Basketball