The Trail Blazers parting ways with Deandre Ayton was long in the works. His two-year tenure in Portland was marred by tardiness, tantrums and injuries, which in part led to Portland using its last two first-round picks on centers. Apparently unable to unload his expiring $35.6 million salary, the Blazers are negotiating a contract buyout, according to league sources. -via New York Times / June 30, 2025
