Deandre Ayton is finalizing a buyout agreement with the Portland Trail Blazers, making him a free agent, according to ESPN’s Shams Charania.
The 27-year-old center, who arrived in Portland from the Phoenix Suns as part of the three-team deal that sent Damian Lillard to the Milwaukee Bucks in 2023, will now have the opportunity to sign with any team.
Ayton’s Time with Portland
During his two seasons with the Trail Blazers, Ayton averaged 15.7 points, 10.6 rebounds, and shot 56.9% from the field. However, his time in Portland was not without challenges. Ayton played only 40 games last season and 55 the year before, struggling with injuries and availability.
He was entering the final year of his four-year, $133 million contract with Phoenix, set to earn $35.6 million in the upcoming season.
Portland has a strong roster of young big men, including 2025 first-round pick Yang Hansen and 2024 first-round pick Donovan Clingan. Clingan, who made the second-team All-Rookie selection last season, was seen as a potential future centerpiece for the team, further diminishing Ayton’s role with the Blazers.
Ayton’s Potential as a Free Agent
Despite some inconsistencies in his play and the perception that he hasn’t fully lived up to the expectations of being the No. 1 overall pick in 2018, Ayton remains an attractive option on the free-agent market.
Throughout his seven seasons in the NBA, he has consistently averaged a double-double, showcasing his ability to be a productive and reliable center.
Ayton was part of the Phoenix Suns’ strong run to the NBA Finals in 2020-21, but his relationship with the Suns soured, and he was eventually traded.
Now, with Portland also deciding to move on, Ayton is free to explore other opportunities. His age (27), skill set, and potential make him a sought-after player, even if his playstyle can be frustrating at times.
The Road Ahead for Ayton
As a free agent, Ayton can sign with any team, and the waiver restriction for second apron teams only applies during the regular season, which further broadens his options. With several teams likely to show interest, Ayton could land with a new squad where he can potentially flourish and be a key contributor once again.
Deandre Ayton’s buyout from the Portland Trail Blazers opens up new possibilities for the talented center, who is still considered one of the top free-agent prospects despite his ups and downs. As the free-agent market heats up, Ayton is sure to draw plenty of attention from teams in need of a skilled big man.
