Lakers Reportedly Slot Deandre Ayton Into Backup Role After Landing Walker Kessler
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The Los Angeles Lakers, fresh off a sign-and-trade agreement for Utah Jazz center Walker Kessler, currently intend to deploy Deandre Ayton as their backup center, according to Dan Woike of The Athletic.
Ayton, who started for Los Angeles last season, exercised the second-year option on his contract worth $8.2 million. Speculation immediately surfaced that the 27-year-old might be moved, but Woike reported on July 1, 2026, that the franchise sees him “as the backup C as of now.”
The decision follows an offseason push to find an ideal frontcourt partner for Luka Doncic. Kessler, regarded as a superior rim protector and traditional pick-and-roll threat, is expected to fill that starting role alongside Doncic and guard Austin Reaves.
Ayton endured criticism last year while adjusting to a reduced offensive workload but finished the regular season and first round of the playoffs on a strong note once he settled into the team’s scheme. With Kessler in place and newly signed stretch big Sandro Mamukelashvili also joining the rotation, head coach JJ Redick will be tasked with balancing minutes among his centers and power forwards.
Los Angeles has further reshaped the roster by adding wing Quentin Grimes and point guard Collin Sexton in free agency, strengthening the backcourt ahead of Redick’s second season at the helm.
Training camp opens in late September, leaving the Lakers time to evaluate additional moves. For now, Ayton remains in purple and gold, poised to anchor the second unit behind Kessler.
Source: Lakers Nation
