Trade & FA 2025-26: Free Agency Starts 5pm CST/6pm EST

[Tyler]

It was already reported when he was traded, that he prefers a short term deal (1+1). I would be very surprised if he doesn't sign with Lakers. They simply skipped all those centers yesterday. 

With Hali out and now losing Turner, it is highly unlikely they will be anywhere near contenders this season. So is it better for them to lock themselves in someone like Ayton or perhaps rather test drive a young center and make a move next season?

Ayton can do a 1+1 in Indy for double the money that LA can offer. 

And sure, LA skipped all of the other centers yesterday because Ayton becoming available changed everything. Now, the Indy job opening up changes everything again. 

Ayton signed a max offer sheet with Indy just a few years ago, so the interest is clearly mutual. He may well end up in LA, but I have no doubt that he's talking to Indy right now.