The Lakers finally got a center they have so desperately needed when they agreed to a deal with Deandre Ayton, according to people not authorized to speak publicly on the matter.
The Lakers were able to get Ayton after he received a buyout from the Portland Trail Blazers of his $35-million contract, giving up about $10-million, according to reports. That opened the door for the Lakers to get Ayton for about $9 million this upcoming season after he cleared waivers Wednesday, according to people familiar with the deal.
Ayton averaged 14.4 points and 10.