New Lakers Rumors on Roster Targets in NBA Free Agency After Deandre Ayton Trade to Wizards

The Los Angeles Lakers are focused on adding talent at multiple positions after reportedly trading Deandre Ayton to the Washington Wizards.

NBA insider Marc Stein reported Friday that the Lakers were pursuing a wing defender and a backup big man, as the Ayton deal gave them an additional $2 million in financial flexibility.

According to ESPN's Shams Charania, Los Angeles is considering Andre Drummond, Jonas Valančiūnas and Kevon Looney as reserve center options.

The Lakers traded Ayton to the Wizards in exchange for guard Jaden Hardy and two second-round picks, per Charania.

Ayton served as Los Angeles' starting center last season and picked up his $8.1 million player option for his 2026-27 campaign, but was set to operate in a reserve role after the team acquired Walker Kessler as part of a sign-and-trade agreement with the Utah Jazz.

With Ayton gone, the Lakers now have several options to choose from as they search for a new backup big man.

Drummond has some familiarity with the organization, as he previously suited up in 21 games with Los Angeles during the 2020-21 season.

The 32-year-old played most recently played for the Philadelphia 76ers, averaging 6.4 points and 8.4 rebounds per game while shooting 47.2 percent from the field last season.

Drummond also showcased his improved three-point accuracy, connecting on 35.6 percent of his long-range jumpers while attempting 90 triples.

Valančiūnas has one year remaining on his current contract with the Denver Nuggets, but it may be difficult for the Lakers to land him if he's waived.

According to Jonas Miklovas and Karolis Tiškevičius of BasketNews, Valančiūnas has committed to EuroLeague team Žalgiris Kaunas if he secures a release from his contract.

Looney only appeared in 21 games with the New Orleans Pelicans last season, but he'd bring plenty of championship experience to Los Angeles after winning three titles throughout his 10-year stint on the Golden State Warriors.

The Lakers have already been busy this offseason, and it seems as though they're not finished making moves just yet.