Overview
- The Athletic’s Dan Woike reported that team sources favor Marcus Smart returning to the Lakers over Deandre Ayton as the club reshapes around Luka Dončić.
- Both players hold player options for 2026-27, with Smart’s option at $5.39 million and Ayton’s at $8.1 million, so each can choose to opt in or test the open market.
- Lakers decision-makers have discussed upgrading the center spot to a younger, more athletic, traditional big to better complement Dončić’s style of play.
- If Ayton exercises his option the team could still trade him, bench him, or replace him in free agency if they find a better-fitting center.
- Smart’s defensive reputation and strong 2026 playoff numbers bolster the case to keep him and will shape how the Lakers manage rotations and roster moves when free agency begins.