Deandre Ayton Picks Up Lakers Option
Deandre Ayton opts in with Lakers, Marcus Smart opts out.
Deandre Ayton has picked up his $8.1 million player option to stay with the Los Angeles Lakers for the 2026-27 season. This decision comes as the Lakers are preparing for the possibility of losing Marcus Smart, who declined his $5.4 million player option and will become an unrestricted free agent. Ayton's decision to opt in sets the stage for the Lakers' front office to decide how they want to approach the frontcourt in the weeks ahead. ## What happened Deandre Ayton has opted into his $8.1 million salary for the 2026-27 season, according to reports. This decision was made as the Lakers are trying to figure out their roster for the upcoming season. Marcus Smart, on the other hand, has declined his $5.4 million player option and will become an unrestricted free agent. The Lakers must now prepare for the possibility of losing Smart and his defensive intensity. Ayton's decision to opt in could impact the team's strategy in free agency, as they will have to decide how to approach the frontcourt. The Lakers could have up to $50 million in salary cap space to spend on free agents. ## Why it matters The Lakers' decision to keep Ayton or pursue other free agents will have significant implications for the team's success in the upcoming season. With Ayton opting in, the Lakers will have to decide how to balance their roster and make the most of their salary cap space. The loss of Smart could also impact the team's defensive strategy, as he was a key player in the Lakers' late-season success. ## How to think about it The Lakers' front office will have to carefully consider their options and make strategic decisions to build a competitive roster. They will need to weigh the benefits of keeping Ayton against the potential costs of losing Smart and other key players.
- Ayton's decision to opt in provides stability in the frontcourt
- The Lakers have salary cap space to pursue other free agents
- Ayton's performance last season was a positive sign for the team
- The loss of Smart could impact the team's defensive intensity
- The Lakers may struggle to replace Smart's production
- Ayton's decision to opt in may limit the team's flexibility in free agency
What does Ayton's decision to opt in mean for the Lakers?+
What are the implications of Smart declining his player option?+
How much salary cap space do the Lakers have?+
- 01Deandre Ayton picks up Lakers option, Marcus Smart opts out
- 02Deandre Ayton picks up Lakers option, Marcus Smart opts out
- 03LeBron James rumors persist as Deandre Ayton opts in with Lakers, Marcus Smart opts out
- 04Who will sign with the Lakers? Updates on Deandre Ayton, Marcus Smart, LeBron James and more
- 05LeBron James rumors persist as Deandre Ayton opts in with Lakers, Marcus Smart opts out
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