Lakers Trade Ayton to Wizards, Pursue Backup Center Options

The Los Angeles Lakers have traded former No. 1 draft pick Deandre Ayton to the Washington Wizards. In return, the Lakers received guard Jaden Hardy and future second-round draft picks in 2031 and 2032. This move comes after the Lakers recently acquired Walker Kessler from the Utah Jazz, establishing him as their starting center for the upcoming season.

Following the Ayton trade, the Lakers are actively searching for a backup center. However, one of their primary targets, Andre Drummond, has signed a one-year deal worth $3.9 million with the defending champion New York Knicks. This development narrows the Lakers' options.

The Lakers' remaining center targets are Jonas Valanciunas and Kevon Looney. Reports suggest Valanciunas might leave the NBA this summer to play in Europe. Kevon Looney, a three-time champion with the Golden State Warriors, spent last season with the New Orleans Pelicans after a decade with the Warriors. He played in only 21 regular-season games, averaging 2.8 points and 5.6 rebounds in 14.7 minutes per game. The Pelicans declined his $8 million team option, making him an unrestricted free agent.