After watching the free agent center options dry up, the Lakers remain the somewhat reluctant favorites to land Deandre Ayton.

ESPN’s Shams Charania recently reported that Deandre Ayton is finalizing a contract buyout with the Portland Trail Blazers to become a free agent. This has led to increased speculation about Ayton potentially joining the Los Angeles Lakers, who are also in search of a key center.

According to a report from NBA insider Jake Fischer, Los Angeles is now facing competition from the Indiana Pacers to sign Ayton. Of course, Ayton previously signed a four-year, $133 million max offer sheet with the Pacers a few years back.

While the idea of a LeBron trade draws eyeballs, the reality of putting together one that works for everyone is much more difficult.

Deandre Ayton received exploratory interest from the Indiana Pacers, New York Knicks, Denver Nuggets, Cleveland Cavaliers, and Milwaukee Bucks (before agreeing to a deal with Myles Turner) before

Damian Lillard is officially a free agent after being released by the Milwaukee Bucks following their move to sign Myles Turner away from the Indiana Pacers. Since his release, the Los Angeles Lakers are one of the teams that have been mentioned as a possible landing spot.

Grizzlies trade center Jay Huff to Pacers, giving Indiana a potential replacement after losing Myles Turner to the Bucks

Cooper Flagg made his professional debut Thursday night in the NBA Summer League and celebrated an 87-85 win over Bronny James and the Los Angeles Lakers.

The Los Angeles Lakers are reportedly seeking youth and athleticism to emulate the two teams from the NBA Finals.