The Los Angeles Lakers had one clear priority this offseason, get Luka Doncic an upgrade at center. By signing Deandre Ayton, they did not just fill a spot; they upgraded dramatically, replacing Jaxson Hayes with a proven, versatile big man who can thrive alongside their new face of the franchise.
Deandre Ayton changes everything for the Lakers frontcourt
Jovan Buha of Buha’s Block noted, “They addressed arguably the biggest need of the roster at the center spot with getting DeAndre Ayton and getting him on a team-friendly contract. … Regardless of whatever questions or limitations he has to his game, he is such an upgrade over Jaxson Hayes.”
Ayton is only 27 years old, and he is still in his prime. He brings size, skill, and consistency. He was a crucial part of the Phoenix Suns’ 2021 NBA Finals run, averaging over 14 points and 10 rebounds on efficient shooting during the regular season, and those numbers climbed in the playoffs.
His ability to finish lobs, score from the post, hit mid-range shots, and run the floor makes him a dynamic weapon the Lakers desperately lacked. Meanwhile, Hayes struggled to make a lasting impact last season.
His regular-season numbers were modest. Hayes averaged just 6.8 points and 4.8 rebounds playing around 20 minutes a night.
Those numbers were incredibly worse when it came to playoff time, as he virtually disappeared. His play left a major hole in the Lakers’ defense and rebounding, limiting their ability to compete deep into the postseason at all. Don't let the fact the Lakers giving him a new contract allow you to believe that he had a successful year.
Buha also highlighted how having a center who can reliably play 20 to 30-plus minutes will change the game for the Lakers. More importantly, Ayton’s skill set pairs perfectly with Doncic’s unique playmaking.
Doncic has a proven track record of elevating the big men around him, and Ayton fits that mold perfectly. Just look at the stats of centers that previously played with him, whether it be Dereck Lively II or Daniel Gafford. This is mot just a better player, it is the right player to complement one of the league’s best offensive minds.
With Ayton patrolling the paint, the Lakers may have finally secured the reliable inside presence that they have been desperately searching for. This is a strong step toward a championship-caliber roster.
It is also important to remember that his level of play in the upcoming season can earn him a new and bigger deal. That means Ayton has every reason to give it his all.