Deandre Ayton Exercises $8.1 Million Player Option

Lakers center Deandre Ayton has officially exercised his $8.1 million player option for the 2026-27 season. The decision, confirmed by multiple reports, keeps the big man in Los Angeles for the upcoming campaign. Ayton's move provides clarity for the Lakers' frontcourt rotation as the team evaluates its broader roster construction and free agency strategy heading into the new league year.