DeAndre Ayton Finalizing Contract Buyout With Trail Blazers to Become Free Agent
In sports things can change in an instant. And late Sunday evening, some unexpected news emerged from Portland. One of their players would be heading to free agency. It was confirmed that DeAndre Ayton would be finalizing a contract buyout with the Trail Blazers in order to become free agent.
The big man will no doubt garner interest from around the league. In the 2024-2025 NBA season, Deandre Ayton averaged 14.4 points, 10.2 rebounds, and 1.6 assists in 40 games with the Portland Trail Blazers. Shooting 56.6% from the field. Why only 40 games? Ayton dealt with a calf injury and did not make an appearance following the All Star break last season.
Nevertheless, regarding this NBA development Shams Charania reported, “Breaking: Deandre Ayton is finalizing a contract buyout with the Portland Trail Blazers to become a free agent, sources tell ESPN.”
But why? Why would the Trail Blazers come to make such a move? NBA insider Michael Scotto explains,
“Sources: Portland had trade discussions with several teams interested in Deandre Ayton. However, the Trail Blazers made it clear they didn’t want to take on any multi-year contracts in return, which made it challenging to find contracts and players to match his $35 million salary.”
DeAndre Ayton Finalizing Contract Buyout With Trail Blazers to Become Free Agent
So now, that just leaves the question… where could Ayton probably land? Well, of course there are plenty of teams that would have interest in a player like Deandre such as Boston or Golden State. However, one team sticks out due to a common link between Ayton and Doncic. NBA analyst and insider, Jake Weinbach spoke on this very connection and possible landing spot stating,
“The Lakers will presumably be the popular front runners to sign Deandre Ayton once the former No. 1 overall pick clears waivers on Wednesday. While the Lakers are clearly in the market for a center, it’s also worth noting that Ayton and Luka Dončić share the same agent — Bill Duffy of BDA & WME.
After Ayton and the Blazers mutually agreed on a contract buyout, perhaps this is all a setup to pair the 26-year-old big man with Dončić in LA. But if Ayton tests his options in free agency, other teams that need starting-level centers such as the Warriors, Hornets, and Celtics should be buzzing with interest.”
Very interesting. Well, another name is being thrown into the free agency mix. And we will know soon where his new home shall be.
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