ESPN expert calls out ‘talented doofus’ who has golden opportunity with the LA Lakers, it’s a defining moment

The spotlight shines brighter on the LA Lakers than anywhere else in the NBA.

This is simply what happens when a franchise is valued at $10 billion, more than any sports team in the entire world.

And for players arriving on the team, it can either make or break them. New signing Deandre Ayton is about to find this out.

After signing a two-year $16.6 million deal with the LA Lakers, Deandre Ayton is braced for the spotlight, and this is already placing a renewed focus on his career to date.

Deandre Ayton needs to prove himself

Deandre Ayton was the former number one pick on the Phoenix Suns in the 2018 NBA Draft, taken two spots ahead of Luka Doncic.

Ayton has been unable to reach his potential yet, and his upcoming spell on the Lakers is the ultimate test.

During a segment on Get Up, ESPN insider Tim MacMahon had a brutal assessment of Ayton, laying down the challenge he has ahead.

MacMahon said: “To this point in Deandre Ayton’s career, he’s been a talented doofus.

“He’s an immensely talented, athletic, chiseled seven footer, has been dumped by two franchises.

“Now this is a golden opportunity for him to come in and prove he’s willing to do the dirty work, he’s willing to do the kind of things necessary to thrive.”

While MacMahon’s words are cutting, and appear harsh, Ayton should be well aware that to this point, he has not had the incredible career expected of a number one pick.

Ayton has never been selected for the NBA All-Star team during his time in the NBA, which in itself shows something has gone wrong for him so far.