Lakers and Wizards Complete Trade Involving Deandre Ayton

WHO:

NBA.com - Deandre Ayton was traded from the Los Angeles Lakers to the Washington Wizards.

NBA.com - Jaden Hardy was traded from the Washington Wizards to the Los Angeles Lakers.

RealGM Basketball - Deandre Ayton is on an $8.4 million contract for the 2026-27 season.

RealGM Basketball - Jaden Hardy's contract is worth $6 million.

WHAT:

NBA.com - The Lakers traded Deandre Ayton to the Wizards for Jaden Hardy and two second-round picks (2031 and 2032).

NBA.com - Ayton averaged 12.5 points, 8.0 rebounds, and 1 block per game in 72 games for the Lakers during the 2025-26 season.

RealGM Basketball - Hardy averaged 9.2 points, 1.5 rebounds, and 1.0 assists in 57 games last season.

WHERE:

NBA.com - The trade involves the Los Angeles Lakers and the Washington Wizards.

WHEN:

NBA.com - The trade was reported on July 3, 2026.

NBA.com - Ayton opted into his deal for the 2026-27 season before free agency began.

WHY:

NBA.com - The Lakers are focusing on finding a backup for Walker Kessler after trading Ayton.

NBA.com - LeBron James informed the Lakers that he plans to play elsewhere next season, altering the team's course.

HOW:

NBA.com - The Lakers are considering options on the veteran's minimum for a backup center, including Andre Drummond, Jonas Valanciunas, and Kevon Looney.

In a significant trade, Deandre Ayton has moved from the Los Angeles Lakers to the Washington Wizards in exchange for Jaden Hardy and two second-round picks in 2031 and 2032. Ayton, who averaged 12.5 points and 8.0 rebounds per game last season, is set to earn $8.4 million for the upcoming season, while Hardy, who averaged 9.2 points, will be on a $6 million contract. The Lakers are now looking for a backup center after LeBron James indicated he plans to play elsewhere next season, with potential options including Andre Drummond, Jonas Valanciunas, and Kevon Looney.