EL SEGUNDO, Calif. – The Los Angeles Lakers formally introduced their newest additions, center DeAndre Ayton and forward Jake LaRavia, Tuesday at the UCLA Health Training Center, as the franchise signals its intent to reassert itself as a championship contender.
Ayton, the No. 1 overall pick in 2018, arrives on a two‑year, $16.6 million deal with a player option for 2026–27, following a buyout from the Portland Trail Blazers. He applauded Lakers stars LeBron James and Luka Dončić as “players who turn teammates into superstars,” attributing his enthusiasm for the Lakers’ platform to their playmaking pedigree.
“They turn them into superstars…just seeing that and finally getting the chance…would be big for me,” Ayton said, adding that being embraced by “Laker Nation” only increased his excitement.
Ayton, 26, spoke candidly about criticism during his Blazers tenure, noting it “fuels me…to prove to the whole world,” and said joining Los Angeles offers the ideal environment to showcase his full potential.
LaRavia, a 6‑foot‑7 wing signed to a two‑year, $12 million contract from the Sacramento Kings, shared equal enthusiasm for his opportunity with the Lakers. He said, “I’m here to compete, help defensively, and learn from the best,” emphasizing his readiness to embrace a role in a title‑oriented rotation.
General Manager Rob Pelinka lauded the duo as complementary pieces: Ayton brings frontcourt presence and rebounding, while LaRavia adds youth, energy, and defensive versatility. The moves come amid a broader roster strategy that retained core contributors like LeBron and Jaxson Hayes, but also saw the departure of Dorian Finney‑Smith.
The Lakers, who finished 50‑32 last season and fell in the first round of the playoffs, now project a starting lineup that includes Dončić, Austin Reaves, James, Rui Hachimura, and Ayton . Pelinka acknowledged the Western Conference remains formidable but said the team believes this group delivers both experience and upside.
Ayton summed up the organization’s culture succinctly: “I know the winning history here. I know what’s expected. I know that here, winning is everything” as.com.
With training camp looming, the Lakers appear primed to challenge the West hierarchy—and with Ayton and LaRavia joining the mix, have reinforced the message: they’re in it to win.