Deandre Ayton says LA Lakers player is the ‘face of the league’, he’s excited to play alongside him

Luka Doncic is the ‘face of the league’

New LA Lakers signing Deandre Ayton is thrilled to be a part of the team after signing as a free agent in the offseason.

Ayton secured a buyout with the Portland Trail Blazers, and has given his career a shot in the arm by teaming up with Luka Doncic and LeBron James.

Ayton spoke at Lakers’ media day and was asked about Luka Doncic, a player he has a long history with, both as high picks in the 2018 NBA Draft, and in previous playoff battles, when representing the Mavericks and the Suns.

“Seeing him, how he developed as a true player into where he finally kicked my tail in the game seven.

“Him just finally getting out and show that he really control the league, and he’s the face of the league, it’s something to see, because he came on my class as well, and now I’m here with him.

“Now we’re just here to really add on to this legacy of this organization.”

Ayton excited for new chance

Deandre Ayton says he has been working hard in the offseason to prepare to make the most of his new chance with the LA Lakers.

He says he is a ‘wounded’ player after the criticism he has endured and wants to prove people wrong.

“I’m really just sharpening my tools, I was just working on my endurance and really having the mindset of competing every night.

“That was a thing people probably say about me, and I can hear it.

“But this is a wounded Ayton where I’ve embraced all of it. I’m on a platform where I know I want to be and I want to show everybody I’m still here and ready to compete.”