The Los Angeles Lakers faced criticism after signing Deandre Ayton off the buyout market, but the big man has quickly given fans hope. They should be excited about his two-way impact. The Lakers desperately needed a center capable of enhancing Luka Doncic's game. This move had disaster written all over it, but Ayton is averaging nearly 15 points and eight rebounds after six games. It includes Friday’s dud, where back spasms limited him to 17 minutes. Even with the down contest, Ayton looks like the answer to Luka’s wish.
Several criticisms have stuck with the seven-footer dating back to his days with the Suns. His desire for post-ups, questionable motor, and head-scratching moments have been problematic, but the Lakers are not seeing that player. Ayton is buying into his role and has helped the Lakers navigate to a 4-2 record in the face of several injuries. He isn’t DominAyton in Los Angeles, but this may be what gets the 27-year-old another massive contract.
There has been a ton for Lakers fans to like about Ayton’s game, including his rebounding, rim protection, and ability to finish. He is still trying to fully integrate into the Lakers roster, but the early signs are positive.
Lakers fans should be excited about Deandre Ayton’s start
Ayton was set to make $35.5 million this season before his buyout in Portland. He is getting just $8.1 million from the Lakers. The seven-footer has to impact winning to get another massive deal. LA is offering the perfect role as a rim protector, rebounder, and finisher. Ayton just needs to check the boxes.
Luka is arguably the best pick-and-roll ball-handler in the world. He will get his screener several easy buckets every night. Ayton is still working out the chemistry with Doncic, but has already found it with Reaves. The Lakers' new center is ninth in the NBA by scoring 1.13 points per possession as a roll man per NBA Stats.
Ayton averaged 1.0 block per game in his first five and was grabbing 9.4 rebounds each night. Those numbers dipped after Friday’s struggles, but it is just one game. He has already proved that he will be active on the glass and is going to challenge shots at the rim. That is all the Lakers can ask for.
Los Angeles was the third seed in the West last season with Jaxson Hayes starting at the five after the Luka Doncic trade. Ayton is a massive upgrade in pure talent. Lakers fans should be excited that he is buying into his role and thriving as the starting center LA needs to be a serious title challenger.
Throw away the disappointment against the Grizzlies. Luka Doncic saved the day. The Lakers may not have him locked in for years to come without getting Ayton. Number 77 wants a center to enhance his game. Surprisingly, Ayton has been a fantastic fit.
Los Angeles Lakers fans should be excited. LeBron James hasn’t played a minute, and the team is 4-2. The Lakers are a serious threat, and Deandre Ayton is playing a key role in that. The seven-footer raises their ceiling. It could blow up in their faces, but this feels like a different Ayton than the Suns or Blazers had. Let the excitement out, as the best is still yet to come.