Deandre Ayton Very Likely to Have Vital Impact on Lakers

This is precisely what Ayton needed to dispel the narrative surrounding his character. We have already seen Redick’s impact on Dončić, particularly with his drastic weight loss and physical improvement this offseason. He will command the same effort from Ayton, and this is where the actual test will occur. 

If Ayton can conform to Redick’s coaching style, the Lakers will become a force to be reckoned with. During his introductory press conference, he expressed his desire to succeed in L.A. and the emotions that come along with playing for the Lakers.

If Ayton can unlock his All-Star potential, the upside for the Lakers is extraordinary. He has expressed his desire to win championships, so we’ve gained some valuable insight into his mindset.

Pairing Ayton With Dončić Long-Term 

As an athletic seven-footer, he will excel in an offense alongside Dončić, which is crucial for the long-term value of the deal. Ayton is the best center Dončić has played with, and the same can be said for Ayton with Dončić at the point guard position. Both can create their shots on the perimeter and inside, respectively, so combining their skills will create a dynamic duo. 

They’re forever connected because of the 2018 NBA Draft, and now there’s a chance they could accomplish something special together. He shared his thoughts now that they’re teammates, after some intense battles between the Suns and the Dallas Mavericks.

Although Ayton can’t stretch the floor with a three-pointer, his athleticism will provide a massive boost to the star-studded starting lineup, including Dončić, Austin Reaves, and LeBron James. All three are great playmakers, but Ayton needs to improve as a rim runner this season. 

He will have many opportunities with back-door cuts and alley-oop passes on the fast break. It’s something the Lakers didn’t have last season that will make a massive difference in their championship pursuit.

This Season & Beyond 

He’ll likely sign a long-term extension if he has a good debut season. Given his star potential and youth, he is their ideal center for the future. He’ll become the second or third option when LeBron retires, and playing with two great playmakers will increase his totals to 17+ points per game. 

All three players are close in age, so it’s a perfect ensemble for the future. Ayton’s excitement to play alongside Dončić indicates good chemistry between the two. Both of them are searching for new beginnings in L.A., and Laker fans will benefit from it.

A star center was crucial for the ‘Luka Lakers’ era, and now they can focus on extending their star trio as they prepare for a new era post-LeBron.