The Los Angeles Lakers have traded center Deandre Ayton to the Washington Wizards for guard Jaden Hardy and two future second-round draft picks. The deal, announced Friday, marks the end of Ayton's tenure with the Lakers.
The Lakers acquired Ayton, the former No. 1 overall pick, in a previous transaction. The specifics of the trade sent the 7-foot center to Washington in exchange for Hardy and the Wizards' second-round selections in 2031 and 2032. The trade continues a series of moves by the Lakers.
Ayton was originally drafted by the Phoenix Suns in 2018. He was later traded to the Lakers before the start of the current season. During his time with the Lakers, Ayton averaged 15.0 points and 10.0 rebounds per game.
Hardy, a guard, was drafted by the Mavericks in 2022 and later acquired by the Wizards. He has averaged 7.0 points and 2.0 assists per game in his career.
The NBA trade deadline is approaching, and this move signals increased activity as teams jockey for playoff positioning and look to reshape their rosters for the future.