Lakers' Ayton Move: Flop or Future?

NBA Exec Slams Lakers Ayton Signing: Teases Progress, Stalls Out The Lakers signing of Deandre Ayton for the 2025-26 season has been criticized by an NBA executive as a total flop. Despite a solid regular season average of 12.5 points and 8 rebounds per game, Ayton failed to reach the double-double mark for the first time in his career. His performance in the playoffs was even more disappointing, with averages of 10 points and 9.6 rebounds per game. The Lakers playoff run was still successful despite injuries to Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves, but Aytons inability to step up as a scorer was a significant issue. Ayton, a former number one pick, has been criticized for not living up to the hype and leaving teams hanging. With his player option for the 2026-27 season worth over $8 million, Aytons future with the Lakers is uncertain. The Lakers have major moves to make this offseason, and figuring out Aytons role is a top priority as they aim for next-level contention. Support the show:Get a discount at https://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/a740f4334e10324e