Deandre Ayton is exercising his $8.1 million player option to stay with the Los Angeles Lakers for the 2026-27 season, according to multiple reports. Ayton had a deadline of Monday to decide on the option included in his contract. The move means he will not test unrestricted free agency this summer. Reports describe the option as part of a two-year agreement worth $16.2 million that Ayton signed with the Lakers last year, after he was waived by the Portland Trail Blazers. Some coverage notes that Ayton already earned and managed his financial situation after leaving Portland, including a buyout figure referenced in one outlet, but the central point across sources is his decision to accept the second-year salary and remain in Los Angeles. Several articles also tie the roster decision to ongoing speculation about LeBron James’ future, though sources do not present new confirmed details beyond the context that the Lakers’ offseason remains watched. Overall, the reporting is consistent that Ayton will return as the team’s starting center for 2026-27 at an $8.1 million salary.