The Los Angeles Lakers are signing veteran forward Deandre Ayton to a one-year, $34 million deal, according to a report from ESPN's Shams Charania. NBA insider Marc Stein was the first to report on Wednesday that rival executives expected Ayton to sign with the Lakers upon formally clearing waivers at 5 p.m. ET.

The Los Angeles Lakers are reportedly signing a former first overall pick by the Phoenix Suns to address their need in the frontcourt.

LeBron's agent Rich Paul has previously told ESPN that "LeBron wants to compete for a championship" and that remains his priority. With how close he is to retirement and their recent addition of Luka Dončić, LeBron's approach and the Lakers approach may no longer match.

Los Angeles Lakers star LeBron James recently wrapped up his 22nd NBA season and has already committed to another year after opting into his $52.6 million player option. Meanwhile, speculation about him leaving Los Angeles started after comments made by his agent,