NewsNBC Los Angeles (KNBC) – LocalJuly 3, 2026United States
Lakers and Wizards Agree to Deandre Ayton Trade
The Los Angeles Lakers are trading Deandre Ayton to the Washington Wizards in exchange for Jaden Hardy and two future second-round draft picks. This move follows a series of roster changes for both teams during the NBA offseason.
Read the full story at NBC Los Angeles (KNBC) – LocalWhy It Matters
This trade alters the roster composition and future draft capital for both the Los Angeles Lakers and the Washington Wizards.
Key Facts
- The Los Angeles Lakers are trading Deandre Ayton to the Washington Wizards.
- The Lakers will receive Jaden Hardy in exchange for Ayton.
- The Lakers will receive second-round draft picks for the years 2031 and 2032.
- Deandre Ayton was the No. 1 overall pick in the 2018 NBA draft.
- Ayton averaged 12.5 points and 8.0 rebounds over 72 games with the Lakers last season.
- The Washington Wizards have won 50 games total over the last three seasons.
- The Wizards roster now includes three No. 1 overall picks: Anthony Davis, AJ Dybantsa, and Deandre Ayton.
- The Lakers are involved in a separate sign-and-trade to acquire Walker Kessler from the Utah Jazz.
- The Lakers are giving up two first-round picks and two first-round pick swaps to acquire Walker Kessler.
Who's Mentioned
personTrae Young“Player currently on the Wizards roster.”personWalker Kessler“Player joining the Lakers via a separate sign-and-trade.”organizationWashington Wizards“NBA team acquiring Deandre Ayton.”organizationLos Angeles Lakers“NBA team trading away Deandre Ayton.”personAJ Dybantsa“Player recently drafted by the Wizards.”personLeBron James“Player not returning to the Lakers.”personJaden Hardy“Player being traded to the Lakers.”other50“Number of games won by the Wizards over the past three seasons.”personDeandre Ayton“Player being traded from the Lakers to the Wizards.”personAnthony Davis“Player currently on the Wizards roster.”other72“Number of games played by Ayton last season.”personAlex Sarr“Player currently on the Wizards roster.”