Amid mounting speculation and anxiety over Luka Doncic’s looming contract extension, Lakers insider Jovan Buha has pointed to two encouraging signs that suggest the franchise can breathe a little easier.

During the 2024-25 NBA season with the Portland Trail Blazers, Ayton played in 40 games. He averaged 14.4 points, 10.2 rebounds, 1.6 assists, and a block per game. In 2023-24, he averaged 16.7 points, 11.1 rebounds, 1.6 assists, and a steal in 55 games.

On Wednesday night, the Los Angeles Lakers addressed their biggest offseason need by signing a rim-protecting, athletic center — and they got exactly that in former No. 1 overall pick Deandre Ayton. Ayton agreed to a two-year,