Deandre Ayton just made the NBA offseason very interesting

The long-awaited free agency bombshell has finally dropped. As happens every year, the NBA offseason has delivered a surprise for fans – and now it’s just a matter of time before some lucky franchise pulls off an unexpected move sure to spark headlines in the coming weeks.

With the 2025 Draft in the books and new faces gradually joining the league’s 32 teams, it’s the veterans who are now looking ahead to their immediate futures. For the Portland Trail Blazers, what once seemed like the dawn of a new “Twin Towers” era has crumbled with the contract buyout of center Deandre Ayton.

Ayton hits the market

It was ESPN insider Shams Charania who broke the news on social media. “Deandre Ayton is finalizing a contract buyout with the Portland Trail Blazers to become a free agent,” he posted. In other words, the race is on to sign the Bahamian-born big man.

With Portland selecting Chinese prospect Yang Hansen – a 7-foot-1 center with huge potential – it seemed the Blazers were building a dominant frontcourt focused on physical play. But Ayton clearly didn’t see himself in that vision. By mutually agreeing to part ways, he’s sent a clear signal to the league: he’s open for business and ready to be courted by the highest bidder.

Lakers and Warriors among frontrunners

Among the teams expected to make a serious play for the 26-year-old center are the Los Angeles Lakers and Golden State Warriors. Steve Kerr’s team struggled in the paint during last season’s playoffs, while the Lakers have yet to find a true replacement for Anthony Davis.

Other teams reportedly eyeing Ayton include the New Orleans Pelicans, Chicago Bulls and even the Charlotte Hornets – although their interest appears less intense. Wherever Ayton lands, one thing is certain: if he joins a strong contender, he could be a game-changing piece with NBA Finals experience that no team wants to face.

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