Brook Lopez was a pillar for the Milwaukee Bucks in the frontcourt. However, after seven long years, Lopez decided to explore new options. In a recent trade, Lopez signed with the Los Angeles Clippers. Now then, this has left the Bucks with a void to fill. And they are reportedly targeting Deandre Ayton to fill up the spot.
Ayton is currently a free agent. With the Portland Trailblazers agreeing to a buyout, Ayton is currently exploring his player options. And according to a report from J Weinbach on ‘Legion Hoops,’ the Bucks are in serious contention to land Ayton. What’s more, they also have the entirety of their $14.1 million player exception to offer.
“BREAKING: The Bucks have emerged as a serious suitor for Deandre Ayton, h/t @JWeinbachNBA Their full $14.1M exception is available for an offer,” read the post.
BREAKING: The Bucks have emerged as a serious suitor for Deandre Ayton, h/t @JWeinbachNBA
— Legion Hoops (@LegionHoops) July 1, 2025
Their full $14.1M exception is available for an offer pic.twitter.com/Pd0prWkypn
Ayton did have some decent numbers last season. With an average of 14.4 points per game, he also had 10.2 rebounds. Add to that his ability to protect the rim, capitalize on rebounds, and help in scoring. However, the Bucks might not have a clear path. They have the Los Angeles Lakers waiting to cash in on Deandre Ayton.
Los Angeles Lakers Termed As A ‘Strong Contender’ For Deandre Ayton
As per NBA insider Chris Haynes, the Los Angeles Lakers are pretty much in the game to sign Ayton. Previously, the Lakers went for Brook Lopez and Clint Capela. Unfortunately, while both the stars signed for different teams, the Lakers might not want to give up on Ayton.
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“That is a strong possibility. Strong possibility. The Lakers already had a plethora of options to look for at the center position in free agency. They had Clint Capela out there, Brook Lopez out there. And now you add Deandre Ayton all of a sudden to the equation. If they’re able to land this, which again, sources have told me this is a strong possibility, you would pair him up with Luka Doncic who is in his draft class,” Chris Haynes opined.
Chris Haynes says there’s a ‘strong possibility’ that Deandre Ayton joins the Lakers 👀
— Lakers All Day Everyday (@LADEig) June 30, 2025
“All signs are pointing in that direction.”
pic.twitter.com/OQ0pXhLKwv
Thus, with Deandre Ayton looking quite the hot prospect, it remains to be seen which team scoops him up.
Also Read: Lakers Star Luka Doncic’s Impressive Offseason Move Has Everyone Talking
