The Purple & Gold just got bigger — and bolder. After weeks of speculation, it’s finally real — and straight from DeAndre Ayton himself. The former No. 1 overall pick is heading to Hollywood, joining forces with none other than LeBron James and Luka Doncic in what might be the most formidable trio the NBA has seen in years. If you’re still catching your breath after Shams Charania broke the news, brace yourself — this Lakers frontcourt just became a nightmare for the league. Ayton’s heartfelt farewell to Portland signals the end of one chapter… and the explosive beginning of another. This isn’t just another offseason move — it’s a power shift.

In a heartfelt Instagram post, the 26-year-old wrote, “RIP CITY, thank you. I appreciate ya’ll for welcoming me and my family. I’ve truly enjoyed my experience engaging with such a proud fanbase and beautiful community.”

Despite rumors of friction with the team, Ayton had nothing but gratitude for the Blazers when he wrote, “Big up to my teammates, ya’ll the realest✊🏽The entire coaching staff, thank you for your leadership. I appreciate going to battle with ya’ll.”

Ayton was selected by the Phoenix Suns but soon rumors of clashes with the coaching staff surfaced. He emerged as a star in Portland but the chatter followed him there too. He’s, however, setting the right tone with his message before working with Coach JJ Redick. “Thank you to the entire front office and staff from the facility to the arena…I’m grateful to every one of you for being part of the journey. @trailblazers, you’ll always have a place in my heart.”

Finally, he confirmed what others found hard to believe since sources in Lakers told ESPN’s Shams Charania. “@lakers I’M READY. Let’s get to work 💛💜 #LakeShow.” In one line, DeAndre Ayton broke the Internet.

Shams, as usual, beat Ayton and the Lakers to the punch. Yet there was a teensy bit of disbelief. Because, come on, LeBron James gets another #1 draft select for a teammate (ninth according to historians)? And Ayton, who’s one of the most seasoned centers in the league? Not to mention Bron and Doncic’s stellar record with centers. There are still some wrinkles to be ironed out, though.

DeAndre Ayton, the big what-if

Ayton brings a rare combination of size, athleticism, and offensive versatility to a Lakers roster that’s long craved a true interior presence. At 7’1″ with a 7’5″ wingspan, he’s the kind of lob-catching, rim-running big who can thrive off Luka Doncic’s elite playmaking. In just 47 games with Portland last season, Ayton finished 51 alley-oop plays—a clear sign of his chemistry potential in the pick-and-roll.

His soft touch in the midrange and around the rim—where he averaged 15.7 points on 56.9% shooting—adds a dependable scoring option in the paint, diversifying a Lakers offense that leaned too heavily on perimeter creation from Doncic and LeBron James. Ayton’s 10.7 rebounds per game also fill a major gap, addressing L.A.’s postseason struggles on the glass, particularly against Minnesota’s Rudy Gobert.

Still, the upside comes with risk. Ayton’s defensive lapses and questions about his motor remain valid concerns. He’s not a natural rim protector, but with the right schemes from coach JJ Redick—and vocal leadership from LeBron—his physical tools could still anchor a serviceable defense.

In the end, it’s a calculated swing. The Lakers aren’t just betting on Ayton’s talent—they’re betting that Doncic’s gravity and James’ presence can unlock a version of the former No. 1 pick we haven’t fully seen. If that gamble pays off, it could be the missing piece to keep their championship window open just a little longer.

Despite his record and the rumored tension, Ayton was a surprise free agent this offseason. As of Sunday night, he was reportedly in negotiations with the Blazers and apparently surrendered $10 million of a $34 million buyout. The Lakers’ pursuit of Ayton was not lowkey either. A big part because Luka Doncic and Ayton are both represented by Bill Duffy, the veteran agent behind WME Basketball.

The Lakers can easily afford him too. Insiders report that Ayton and the team are close to a two-year deal worth $16.6 million. If that’s inked, Ayton will cash in a $8.1 million starting salary for next season.

The expectations on Ayton on reviving the Lakers with two superstars is high not just for the ‘LakeShow’ but for himself as well. He’ll have a player option for 2026-27 and if he’s a winning piece, he could earn a $34 million contract in his next free agency.

There are still doubts about Ayton’s shooting efficacy since the other big man still on the market was Al Horford and Brook Lopez. However, most analysts believe Ayton is a better fit for Doncic. Even Luka is apparently excited about this signing.