The Los Angeles Lakers secured Deandre Ayton after the Portland Trail Blazers unexpectedly bought out his contract ahead of the upcoming NBA season. This move created an opportunity for the Lakers, who urgently needed a starting center following a trade that sent Anthony Davis away. Ayton agreed to a $16.6 million deal with Los Angeles, significantly less than the $35.6 million he would have earned with Portland, making a clear commitment to join the Lakers’ roster.
Ayton recently spoke publicly in his first press conference as a Laker, answering questions about his new role and relationships within the team. Among the key topics was whether he had communicated with star teammates LeBron James and Luka Doncic since signing.
Ayton Confirms Communication with Luka Doncic, No Word Yet from LeBron James
During the press interaction, Deandre Ayton revealed he had not yet heard from LeBron James but did receive a message from Dallas Mavericks star Luka Doncic. This revelation attracted attention due to the high-profile nature of both teammates. Fans speculated about the implications of LeBron’s silence amid the offseason, although experts suggest it is typical for veteran players like James to focus on family and personal time away from public distractions.
Not really yet, but I definitely got a text from Luka.
—Deandre Ayon on hearing from LeBron James
Despite speculations, the lack of immediate contact from LeBron James does not necessarily indicate any internal conflict or impending changes within the Lakers, especially given the offseason timing and player habits regarding social media and communications. LeBron James is known to step back from the spotlight during breaks, prioritizing rest and recovery.
Career Overview and Expectations for Ayton with the Lakers
Over his NBA career, Ayton has proven to be an efficient big man, shooting 56.6% from the field while averaging 16.4 points and 10.5 rebounds across 398 games. His presence is expected to shore up the Lakers’ interior defense and scoring, as the team eyes a competitive run in the 2025-26 season. Integrating with Luka Doncic and LeBron James will be critical for Ayton to rediscover his form and support the Lakers’ championship aspirations.
Ayton Praises LeBron James and Luka Doncic as Transformational Playmakers
As soon as the opportunity arose to join the Lakers, Ayton expressed great admiration for his new teammates. He highlighted how both James and Doncic excel at elevating those around them through their playmaking abilities. Ayton specifically noted their remarkable assist averages, underscoring how these skills create opportunities that transform role players into key contributors on the court.
They both average about nine assists over their career span, and just the type of players they create with their teammates. They turn them into superstars, they make them bigger than their roles, they make them very important on the floor. Just seeing that and finally getting the chance to go in and experience that would be big for me.
—Deandre Ayton told the media
Having spent two years with the Trail Blazers and five seasons at the Phoenix Suns, Ayton’s experience includes a significant role in Phoenix’s 2021 NBA Finals run. The Lakers hope his blend of size, scoring, and rebounding will complement their backcourt stars and push them closer to another title.
Building Chemistry: Ayton’s History with Luka Doncic and Optimism for Lakers Collaboration
Since both Ayton and Luka Doncic entered the NBA in 2018, they have faced off multiple times and become well acquainted with each other’s game styles. Now, as teammates, Ayton has expressed enthusiasm about playing alongside Doncic, praising his physical condition and expressing pride in joining forces on the same team.
He’s super ripped and I’m finally glad to be on his side.
—Deandre Ayton told ESPN
This existing familiarity could help speed up their on-court chemistry, an asset that the Lakers desperately need as they reshape their squad around these key stars. Fans and analysts alike are hopeful that the Ayton-Doncic combination, supported by LeBron James and rising talent Austin Reeves, will bring fresh energy and versatility to the Lakers’ lineup.
Looking Ahead: What Ayton’s Arrival Means for the Lakers’ 2025-26 Season
With the Lakers addressing a crucial position by adding Deandre Ayton, the team looks set to improve its interior presence and overall balance. Ayton’s experience and skill set, combined with elite playmakers like LeBron James and Luka Doncic, create a promising foundation for the franchise’s ambitions. How quickly these players adapt and complement each other will be a key storyline as the season unfolds.
The Lakers’ front office and coaching staff will be monitoring Ayton’s consistency and ability to integrate within their system closely, aiming to maximize the impact he can have both offensively and defensively. His signing not only fills a positional gap but also indicates the Lakers’ transition towards a dynamic blend of veteran leadership and emerging talent.