Deandre Ayton is finalizing a contract buyout with the Portland Path Blazers to develop into a free agent, sources instructed ESPN.
Ayton, who turns 27 subsequent month, had $35.6 million left on his contract, which was set to run out subsequent summer season.
He’s now free to signal with any group, together with these in each aprons, regardless of incomes better than $14.1 million. The waiver restriction that might usually stop a participant with Ayton’s contract from signing with a group within the second apron solely solely applies through the common season, in response to ESPN’s Bobby Marks.
The transfer helps Portland clear up a crowded heart room that features the No. 16 decide in final week’s draft Yang Hansen in addition to Donovan Clingan, the No. 7 decide in final yr’s draft. In addition they have Robert Williams III and Duop Reath beneath contract.
Ayton’s time in Portland ends two years after the Blazers acquired him from the Phoenix Suns. He averaged 14.4 factors and 10.2 rebounds whereas taking pictures 56.6% from area final season.
A former No. 1 decide who helped the Suns attain the NBA Finals in 2021, Ayton is the primary participant to common not less than 10 factors and 10 rebounds in every of his first seven NBA seasons since Dwight Howard.