After an early season exit, Los Angeles Lakers‘ General Manager Rob Pelinka emphasized the team’s priority to strengthen their roster, particularly at the center position. Amidst various speculated names, the team ultimately secured a verbal agreement with Deandre Ayton. This move sparked considerable debate among fans and analysts on social media, many expressing skepticism. However, a renowned franchise legend broke from the prevailing sentiment, offering high praise for Ayton’s potential impact.
“I think it’s a great move (Deandre Ayton). He’s the perfect partner for Luka with the high screen and roll, and the high lobs and throwing it into the post… He’s an All-Star talent, but he has to do it over an 82-game schedule and do it consistently. So I don’t blame people for being a little bit skeptical about him. But I have faith in him. I know he’s going to prove to everybody how good he is,” Mychal Thompson said, via Sportskeeda.
Although Deandre Ayton’s talent is undeniable, he has not surpassed 70 games in a season since his rookie year in 2018-19. Last NBA season, he managed to play just 40 games for the Portland Trail Blazers. For Ayton to succeed in Los Angeles, achieving continuity and consistency will be crucial. Despite his limited minutes on the court, he averaged 14.4 points and 10.6 rebounds, showcasing his ability to make a significant impact when healthy.
According to Dan Woike of The Athletic, Luka Doncic would have enthusiastically celebrated a deal involving Deandre Ayton and the Lakers. Woike notes that the Slovenian star feels eager to team up with the 26-year-old center. Doncic has previously showcased one of his best performances with an outstanding center at his side, giving fans reason to be optimistic about seeing an even better version of Doncic with this critical position effectively covered.
JJ Redick’s past remarks on Deandre Ayton resurface after center agrees to join his team
Although Deandre Ayton is not coming from his best season individually, he has managed to prove to be one of the most talented players in the NBA. For this reason, his recent agreement with the Lakers has sparked widespread excitement among analysts, who view him as a pivotal piece in the team’s quest for optimal balance. The move has even resurrected earlier comments from JJ Redick, now circulating on social media.
“Ayton’s fantastic… He’s fantastic at punishing mismatches. In the two-man pick-and-roll with him and (Chris Paul), they’re the No. 1 offensive duo among high-volume pick-and-roll players… So he is fantastic,” JJ Redick expressed, via ESPN on 2022. While these remarks date back three years, they emphasize the perception of Ayton’s potential as a game-changer. Analysts and fans alike are optimistic that Deandre will seamlessly integrate into the team’s dynamic.