REPORT: The Lakers now have $8.25M MLE remaining after signing LaRavia, potentially using it to acquire Ayton post-Blazers’ $25.5M buyout
The Los Angeles Lakers have long been one of the NBA’s most storied franchises, synonymous with championship pedigree and star power. Over the years, their front office has adeptly managed cap space and contracts to build rosters that can compete at the highest levels. As of now, following the recent signing of Jake LaRavia, the Lakers reportedly have $8.25 million remaining on their Mid-Level Exception (MLE). This opens up intriguing possibilities, particularly regarding the acquisition of a high-impact big man like Deandre Ayton.
Ayton’s situation is unique this offseason. After the Portland Trail Blazers paid him $25.5 million to buy out his contract, he enters free agency with a significant financial cushion. This development could make a Lakers signing more feasible, even if Ayton accepts a smaller salary, given the sizeable payout he has already received this season.
This report delves into the Lakers’ current cap scenario, the details of the MLE, Ayton’s contract and buyout, and how these factors intersect to create a potential win-win scenario for both Ayton and the Lakers. Additionally, we explore the strategic implications of this move on the Lakers’ roster, future flexibility, and championship aspirations.
Understanding the Lakers’ Current Cap Situation
After using part of their Mid-Level Exception to sign rookie Jake LaRavia, the Lakers reportedly retain $8.25 million on their MLE. The MLE is a critical tool for teams over the salary cap, allowing them to sign free agents even when cap space is limited.
What is the Mid-Level Exception (MLE)?
The MLE is an exception in the NBA salary cap rules that permits teams to sign players to contracts even if they are above the salary cap, within certain limits. The exact value of the MLE varies depending on the team’s cap situation, but the Lakers’ remaining $8.25 million MLE is a sizable resource in today’s NBA market.
This remaining MLE amount means the Lakers can still offer a single free agent a contract worth up to $8.25 million per year (usually structured as a one- or two-year deal) without using cap space or luxury tax exceptions. This is especially valuable as the Lakers have limited cap flexibility after committing significant salary to their core stars and recent signings.
The Biannual Exception Still Available
In addition to the MLE, the Lakers reportedly still have a $5.1 million biannual exception (BAE) available. The BAE allows teams to add a player for roughly half the value of the MLE, providing another avenue to bolster the roster.
While the Lakers cannot use both the MLE and BAE on a single player, the BAE could serve as an additional asset to complement a larger signing or add depth to the roster in a different position.
Deandre Ayton’s Buyout and Contract Situation
Deandre Ayton, a former number one overall draft pick, has established himself as a dominant force in the paint with solid scoring, rebounding, and defensive presence. His size, athleticism, and skill set make him a coveted asset for teams seeking to bolster their frontcourt.
The Trail Blazers’ Buyout of Ayton
The Trail Blazers recently bought out Ayton’s contract by paying him $25.5 million, a move signaling that Portland was ready to move on from the player, perhaps due to roster fit, cap considerations, or team direction.
A buyout in this context means that Ayton received a guaranteed payout but was released from his contractual obligations, allowing him to become a free agent. Importantly, this payout guarantees Ayton’s income for the year regardless of where he signs next.
Implications for Ayton’s Market Value
Because Ayton has already been paid a hefty sum via the buyout, he can afford to sign a new contract at a significantly lower salary without a financial loss. This creates a unique bargaining position for teams like the Lakers.
Ayton’s willingness to accept a reduced salary would allow the Lakers to fit him under their MLE limit, maximizing their cap flexibility while still adding a player capable of elevating the team’s competitiveness.
Why Ayton Could Be a Perfect Fit for the Lakers
The Lakers have long sought a reliable, dominant big man to complement their star backcourt and provide interior defense and rebounding. Ayton fits this profile perfectly.
Complementing the Lakers’ Core
With stars like LeBron James and Anthony Davis aging and managing injuries, adding a young, physical presence like Ayton could provide the Lakers with more balance. Ayton’s ability to protect the rim and score inside can relieve some of the pressure on Davis while giving the team a versatile frontcourt rotation.
Athleticism and Youth
Ayton is still in his mid-20s, offering the Lakers a chance to inject youth and athleticism into their frontcourt. This infusion could help the team maintain competitiveness in the physically demanding Western Conference.
Fit With Lakers’ Playing Style
The Lakers have historically thrived with big men who can finish around the basket, run the floor, and guard multiple positions. Ayton’s mobility and finishing skills align well with this style.
Financial and Strategic Benefits for the Lakers
Maximizing Cap Efficiency
By leveraging their remaining $8.25 million MLE to sign Ayton, the Lakers could add significant talent without sacrificing future cap flexibility. This is crucial as the franchise plans to maintain competitiveness while preparing for contract renewals of key players.
Preserving Future Flexibility
Signing Ayton on a reasonable deal, especially given his already guaranteed buyout payout, means the Lakers can avoid a large long-term commitment or luxury tax penalties. This could preserve flexibility for future free agency classes or trades.
Depth and Roster Construction
Adding Ayton would deepen the Lakers’ roster, giving them more options in rotations, injury cover, and matchup versatility—important considerations in the long grind of an NBA season.
Potential Challenges and Considerations
Ayton’s Desire and Market Options
Although financially feasible, Ayton’s personal preferences and other suitors in free agency could influence whether he accepts a reduced salary to join the Lakers. He might prefer a larger role, a contender with a different roster fit, or a higher salary offer from another team.
Lakers’ Roster Spots and Role Definition
The Lakers need to define Ayton’s role clearly to ensure chemistry with existing players. Balancing minutes with Davis and managing expectations will be critical.
Injury Risks
Ayton has had some injury concerns in his career, and the Lakers will need to assess his health carefully.
What’s Next for the Lakers and Ayton?
If the Lakers decide to pursue Ayton using their remaining MLE, the front office will likely engage in negotiations emphasizing the opportunity to compete for a championship, the benefits of playing in Los Angeles, and the financial realities of the buyout.
For Ayton, joining the Lakers could offer a high-profile platform and a chance to contend in a marquee market.
The Lakers’ remaining $8.25 million Mid-Level Exception, combined with Deandre Ayton’s unique financial situation following the Trail Blazers’ $25.5 million buyout, creates a compelling opportunity. If Ayton is willing to take a reduced salary this season, the Lakers could secure a high-impact big man without compromising their salary cap health or future flexibility.
This potential acquisition could address a key roster need, complement the team’s stars, and improve their championship chances. While challenges remain, the alignment of financial, strategic, and competitive factors makes this a move worth watching closely in the coming weeks.
