Lakers legend makes it clear what DeAndre Ayton must do to reach All-Star level and turn the franchise into a contender

The Los Angeles Lakers are gearing up for a NBA season filled with high expectations and potential surprises. With a revamped roster and key additions, the spotlight now turns to one of their newest acquisitions—DeAndre Ayton. The former No. 1 overall pick could be a cornerstone of the Lakers’ new project, and franchise legend Mychal Thompson believes that ceiling is within reach.

Having addressed their most pressing offseason needs, the Lakers now look to Ayton to step up. Speaking on Hoop Talk with Allen Sliwa, Thompson shared his thoughts on what it means to wear the purple and gold and issued a public challenge to Ayton as he enters his first season with the franchise.

“It comes down to DeAndre Ayton and how badly he wants it,” Thompson said. “If he wants to be an All-Star caliber center—maybe not make the All-Star team, but play at that level—the Lakers will be a serious threat to beat Oklahoma City next year.”

Thompson didn’t stop there. He emphasized that Ayton has the physical tools and experience to elevate his game. “If DeAndre wants to take his game up to a 20-point, 12-rebound-a-night kind of center, the Lakers can contend for a championship. How hard is that to do? At 27 years old, entering his prime—you should be able to do that every night.”

Mychal Thompson #43 of the Los Angeles Lakers runs up the court during an NBA game at the Great Western Forum in Los Angeles

The two-time NBA champion also touched on the pride Ayton could bring to his home country. As a fellow Bahamian, Thompson spoke passionately about what it would mean for Ayton to thrive in Los Angeles. “The Lakers are the Bahamas’ favorite team… and now one of their native sons has the chance to wear the uniform.”

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Thompson added that Ayton should embrace this unique platform, not just for himself but for his roots. “If all that doesn’t motivate him to make his countrymen proud, then there’s nothing that can be done. But I believe he understands the enormous opportunity he has and the responsibility of being the Lakers’ center.”

Last season, Ayton averaged 14.4 points and 10.2 rebounds per game with the Portland Trail Blazers. While those numbers were solid, they fell short of expectations considering the limited support around him and the games he missed.

Now with the Lakers, Ayton finds himself surrounded by a NBA playoff-caliber roster and a leadership group that believes in his potential. If he rises to the occasion, both the Bahamas and Los Angeles might witness the best version of him yet.