His buyout dramatically changed the situation and greatly increased the likelihood of the Lakers acquiring him. Ultimately, the Lakers did, obviously, sign Ayton, a decision that perhaps might have been made easier by the input of someone with experience coaching Ayton.

Deandre Ayton and superstar Luka Dončić reportedly were very interesting in teaming up this summer on the Los Angeles Lakers after the veteran center agreed to a buyout with the Portland Trail Blazers.