Mind The Game (DR) / Portland Trail Blazers (DR)
By Editorial | Sport
Arriving this summer after a long quest for stability at the pivot position, Deandre Ayton signed a two-year contract for $16.2 million, with a player option. A short, almost transitional agreement, but which does not prevent the Lakers from planning ahead. Internally, the question is no longer only whether it is useful today, but whether it can embody a lasting solution at the heart of the racket.
According to NBA journalist Jovan Buha, this hypothesis is clearly considered, provided that several criteria are met. The franchise would particularly carefully observe Ayton’s ability to raise his level when the stakes rise. “Yes, I think the Lakers see Deandre Ayton as their long-term answer at center”he explains, while emphasizing that this vision remains conditional.
The evaluation will inevitably go through the playoffs. Buha insists on this key point, believing that too marked a gap between regular season and playoffs could change the situation. “If he has an A- level regular season but B- or C+ playoffs, that will have an impact on how the Lakers see him in the long term, and on his next contract”he specifies.
A profile that ticks a lot of boxes in Los Angeles
On a strictly sporting level, Deandre Ayton is meeting expectations for the moment. His offensive efficiency, particularly near the circle, quickly found its place in the system. Buha does not hide his appreciation of the overall performance of the pivot. “Offensively, he’s one of the most talented and finishing centers in the league”he analyzes, before adding that his defensive impact even exceeds initial projections.
Still according to the journalist, Ayton displays an interesting balance between finesse and solidity. “I would say he’s A on offense and probably B on defense, or even B+. And that’s exactly the type of pivot the Lakers need.”he continues. A profile particularly compatible with a framework built around Luka Dončić and Austin Reaves, where mobility and reading the game take precedence.
However, there remains the contractual dimension, which is much more delicate. Ayton has a player option for next season, which Buha expects to be declined. “I am quite confident that he will decline his option and look for a big contract next summer”he says. The pivot could then aim for a significantly higher annual salary, potentially doubled or even tripled.
On the market, his value will largely depend on league-wide demand. In the event of competition between several franchises, Ayton could claim a salary between $25 million and $30 million per year. “At this level of production, players easily earn more than 25 million, sometimes more than 30. Deandre Ayton is part of this category”estimates Buha.
