As the NBA offseason heats up, the Los Angeles Lakers have worked to strengthen their roster, particularly at the center position. After acquiring Luka Doncic in a blockbuster trade that sent Anthony Davis to another team in February, the Lakers faced a significant frontcourt void. This gap was evident during their playoff exit, where they struggled against Rudy Gobert and the Minnesota Timberwolves in the first round.
Following a failed attempt to secure Mark Williams before the trade deadline, the Lakers pivoted toward free agency to fill this critical role. Recently, they signed former No. 1 overall pick Deandre Ayton to a two-year, $16.6 million contract after he was waived by the Portland Trail Blazers, aiming to reinforce their interior presence.
Paul Pierce Supports Ayton’s Fit and Potential Impact
Former Celtics star Paul Pierce shared his perspective on FS1’s Speak, highlighting the significance of Ayton’s addition to the Lakers. He emphasized that Ayton fits the Lakers’ needs well due to his rebounding ability, inside scoring potential, and presence as a lob threat.
He’s pretty much exactly what the Lakers need,
Pierce said.
A lob threat, a guy who can rebound and be an interior presence. I’m not sure about a borderline All-Star, but he’ll definitely fill in some gaps that the Lakers need.
—Paul Pierce, Former NBA Player
Pierce also noted Ayton’s career challenges and the motivation he could gain from joining a team led by stars such as Luka Doncic, LeBron James, and JJ Redick. Despite Ayton’s promising start to his career, he has yet to fully reach his potential after seven seasons in the league.
You gotta understand, he was waived. I can’t remember the last No. 1 pick that was waived or bought out … Hopefully with the leadership in that locker room, with the culture, with JJ Redick, he can turn it around, because this is it. This is his last opportunity to try to earn some big money in this league … This is a make or break year.
—Paul Pierce, Former NBA Player
Contract Extensions for Doncic and Trae Highlight Lakers’ Future
Both Luka Doncic and Trae Young, another rising star, are eligible for lucrative four-year contract extensions worth up to $229 million, ensuring their financial security and leadership roles in the years ahead. At 26, Ayton is still young but faces pressure to prove himself as worthy of a long-term, high-value contract after struggles with previous teams including Phoenix and Portland.
Criticism over Ayton’s effort and consistency has followed him throughout his career, and the intensity of media and fan scrutiny in Los Angeles will challenge him further. Success in this environment, however, could cement his importance to the Lakers as they prepare for a post-LeBron James era, continuing a Lakers tradition of strong centers.
High Expectations Amid a Competitive Western Conference
The Western Conference is expected to be intensely competitive this season, making Ayton’s signing a strategic and potentially high-reward move for the Lakers. His ability to perform well could provide the team with a stronger frontcourt, improving both their defensive capabilities and offensive versatility.
Ayton’s presence alongside Doncic and LeBron James could give the Lakers a clearer path to contend deeply in the playoffs and build toward sustained success beyond this campaign. This season represents a pivotal point not only for Ayton’s career trajectory but also for the Lakers as they aim to remain title contenders.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Is Luka Doncic a millionaire?
A. By 2025, Celebrity Net Worth estimates that Luka Doncic’s wealth is around $75 million.
Q. Is Luka Doncic 77?
A. Since joining the Los Angeles Lakers, Luka Doncic has always worn the number 77. Fans are curious about his choice.
Q. What car does Luka Doncic own?
A. Luka Doncic owns several expensive red cars. His collection also includes impressive vehicles like the Apocalypse Hellfire 6×6 and Koenigsegg Regera.
He has a Mercedes AMG G63 Brabus 800, a Lamborghini Urus that costs $221,506, and two Porsches: the Panamera 4 and the Electric Panamera.