Mychal Thompson is confident in DeAndre Ayton’s talent and is eager to mentor the young center as he adjusts to the Los Angeles Lakers. Thompson expressed his support for Ayton during an appearance on ESPN’s Mason and Ireland radio show, emphasizing the opportunity Ayton has to prove himself on a big stage. The former No. 1 overall pick carries high hopes from the Lakers legend, who believes Ayton can fulfill his potential with proper guidance.
Yeah, if we re-did the (2018) draft today, obviously Luka (Doncic) would go No. 1, but you still might go No. 2. I’ll tell him, ‘You could be the next great Lakers center. It’s up to you.’
—Mychal Thompson, Lakers radio color commentator
DeAndre Ayton Harnesses Criticism to Drive Improvement
At 26, DeAndre Ayton is recognized as one of the NBA’s more skilled big men, yet he remains determined to elevate his game after seven seasons. Despite consistent performance metrics, Ayton has yet to earn an All-Star selection. In the previous season, he posted averages of 14.4 points, 10.2 rebounds, and 1.6 assists per game, sporting an efficient 56.6% shooting percentage over 40 contests. Ayton spent the first five years of his career with the Phoenix Suns, who selected him first overall in the 2018 draft.
Earlier this month, Ayton signed a two-year contract with the Lakers valued at $16.6 million, following a buyout from the Portland Trail Blazers. Speaking at his introductory press conference, Ayton emphasized how criticism has fueled his ambition and sharpened his focus, viewing this phase with the Lakers as a pivotal moment to showcase his true capabilities.
It fuels me. It fuels me up completely,
Ayton said.
And it’s a different type of drive that I’ve been wanting to express for a long time. I think this is the perfect timing, here in the purple and gold. And it’s a platform I cannot run from. I can show what I really am and just be around some greats to really emphasize that for me as well. It is a lot of fuel in me to prove to the whole world.
—DeAndre Ayton, Lakers center
A Shared Bahamian Heritage Creates Bond Between Ayton and Thompson
Mychal Thompson has a remarkable basketball legacy as the first foreign-born player to be selected No. 1 overall, drafted by the Portland Trail Blazers in 1978. His NBA journey included early recognition on the All-Rookie Team and eventual contributions to the Lakers’ consecutive championship teams in 1987 and 1988.
Like Thompson, Ayton hails from the Bahamas, fostering a deep connection between the two. This shared background adds another layer to their relationship, offering Ayton a direct link to his basketball roots and a role model who paved the way for players from their island.
That is the grandfather of the whole thing,
Ayton remarked.
That is why we have hopes of being in the NBA, and the reason that the ball bounces on that island. That man right there, he opened the gates, for sure.
—DeAndre Ayton, Lakers center
What This Mentorship Could Mean for Ayton and the Lakers
With Mychal Thompson’s willingness to mentor DeAndre Ayton, the Lakers are investing in the development of a promising center who has yet to fully realize his potential. Thompson’s experience and encouragement bring a unique perspective, reinforcing Ayton’s belief that his prime is still ahead. As Ayton settles into Los Angeles, this mentorship may accelerate his growth and impact on the court.
For the Lakers, nurturing Ayton’s talent could address critical needs down low, complementing the team’s ambitions. Ayton’s determination, combined with Thompson’s guidance, may soon herald a breakthrough that benefits both player and franchise in the coming seasons.