Deandre Ayton wasted no time finding a new home after the Portland Trail Blazers bought out his contract this offseason. The Lakers desperately needed a starting-caliber center and handed the Bahamian big man a fully guaranteed deal.
How Much Will Deandre Ayton Earn With the Lakers?
Ayton signed a two-year deal worth $16.6 million with the Lakers, with the full amount guaranteed, per Spotrac. He will earn a base salary of $8,097,561 in the 2025-26 season and $8,502,439 in 2026-27. The second year includes a player option, giving Ayton control over his future.
Ayton was entering the final year of his four-year, $132.9 million contract and was set to earn $35.6 million in 2025-26. After the Blazers bought out the deal, he will reportedly make $33.7 million in total this season between his buyout money and Lakers salary.
His cap hit and dead cap value remain straightforward for the Lakers. Ayton will carry a cap hit of $8,097,561 and a dead cap value of $8,097,561 in 2025-26. The deal gives Los Angeles financial flexibility while addressing their biggest roster need.
What Has Ayton Earned Throughout His NBA Career?
Ayton entered the league as the No. 1 overall pick in the star-studded 2018 draft class, which included Luka Dončić and Trae Young. He signed a four-year, $40 million rookie deal with Phoenix and quickly established himself as a dominant big man.
Deandre Ayton with the CLUTCH basket. 🔥
(🎥: @NBAonTNT)
— theScore (@theScore) June 23, 2021
Following his rookie contract, Ayton signed a four-year extension worth $132.9 million that began in 2022. The 7-footer never completed the full term with Phoenix. He was traded to Portland before the 2023-24 season as part of the blockbuster deal that sent Damian Lillard to Milwaukee.
Ayton spent two seasons with the Trail Blazers before they decided on the buyout. He averaged 15.7 points and 10.7 rebounds during his time in Portland, playing 95 games over two seasons.
Through his contracts, Ayton has accumulated total career earnings of $137,159,862. When the 26-year-old completes his two-year deal with Los Angeles, his career earnings will reach $179,310,676.
How Much Is Ayton Worth Off the Court?
As of 2025, Ayton’s estimated net worth stands at approximately $35 million, according to various tracking websites. With eight years of NBA experience, a substantial portion comes from his basketball salary. He has also built a recognizable brand through endorsements and investments.
Ayton has established partnerships with companies such as Puma, Champs, AT&T, and NBA2K. His move to the Lakers, one of the NBA’s most visible franchises, could open additional endorsement opportunities in the Los Angeles market.
The center’s financial situation reflects smart career management. Despite being traded twice and bought out once, he has maintained consistent earning power and secured guaranteed money with each move. His player option for 2026-27 gives him flexibility to either stay with the Lakers or test free agency again.
