The Los Angeles Lakers’ signing of Deandre Ayton has attracted both interest and skepticism as the team seeks to strengthen its frontcourt. With the Lakers aiming to improve their roster, analysts and fans have voiced concerns about Ayton’s commitment and consistency. ESPN analyst and ex-<a href="https://www.buzzineintl.com/category/basketball/nba/”>NBA player Kendrick Perkins delivered a pointed warning to Ayton, emphasizing that this could be his final chance to prove his value at the highest level of basketball.
Appearing on ESPN’s Road Trippin podcast, Perkins made it clear that Ayton must approach the upcoming season with full dedication.
He better come here with the right mindset. This could possibly be his last shot,
Perkins cautioned. He highlighted the stiff competition Ayton will face in the Western Conference, mentioning dominant centers such as Nikola Jokić, Alperen Şengün, and Anthony Davis.
Perkins underscored the importance of Ayton’s mindset, saying,
You got your hands full! It should be a moment where you go in and check yourself and say, you know what, I’m about to lock in.
Furthermore, Perkins reminded Ayton of the high expectations from Lakers fans and the franchise’s legendary figures.
People need to see that you’re committed to the little things. You’ve got a tough Western Conference; forget the league! You have a great responsibility. The Lakers is one of the most storied franchises in sports. You got Magic Johnson… watching your a**. You gotta go out there and produce at a high level. You cannot fool the Lakers organization.
The Challenges Ayton Faces in Rebuilding His Reputation
Despite achieving decent averages last season—14.4 points and 10.2 rebounds—Ayton’s performance was among the least impactful of his career, marked by inconsistency and questions about his work ethic. Reports have surfaced suggesting issues with his effort and integration within team cultures, including his previous stints with the Phoenix Suns and Portland Trail Blazers.
Perkins has previously described Ayton as a diva and a cancer in the locker room, reflecting widespread concerns about the player’s attitude and professionalism. These worries were compounded by incidents such as lateness, skipping rehab sessions, and displays of frustration like slamming chairs, all contributing to the Suns and Trail Blazers deciding to part ways with him.
Ayton has also faced awkward personal challenges that affected his career. In an interview with The Oregonian, he explained,
I didn’t have a bed for quite some time… just trying to figure this out.
This unusual circumstance pointed to difficulties off the court which may have influenced his performance despite having financial means and resources available.
Another incident that drew criticism occurred when Ayton missed an important game against the Brooklyn Nets due to a sheet of ice blocking his driveway. Although he reportedly spent hours attempting to leave, with assistance offered by the Trail Blazers, he was unable to reach the arena on time. This event sparked ridicule and further questioned his reliability under pressure.
Significance of the Lakers Opportunity for Ayton
Kendrick Perkins’ admonition arrives before the 2025-26 season, offering Deandre Ayton a clear ultimatum to make significant changes if he hopes to maintain a role in the league. The pressure to perform consistently and embrace the Lakers’ storied legacy is immense, especially with icons like Magic Johnson watching closely.
For Ayton, this Lakers move might well represent the final chance to silence doubters and establish himself as a dependable center in a fiercely competitive Western Conference. His response to this challenge could determine not only his future with Los Angeles but his standing across the NBA.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Is Deandre Ayton a starter?
A. Deandre Ayton has become the new starting center for the Los Angeles Lakers. Previously the top pick in the draft, Ayton’s addition follows a long search for the position. This update was first reported by Fadeaway World.