Deandre Ayton Traded to Washington Wizards by Los Angeles Lakers

The Los Angeles Lakers traded Deandre Ayton to the Washington Wizards in exchange for Jaden Hardy and a pair of second-round picks in 2031 and 2032, shortly after Ayton exercised his 2026-27, $8.1 million player option. Lakers were pleasantly surprised to fetch draft capital back given Ayton's inconsistent play and temperament, which previously led to departures from Phoenix and Portland. Ayton now hopes for a fresh start with his new Wizards squad.