Tag: Deandre Ayton

Shaq to Ayton: “Rebound, block shots, dominate” after flat debut

Deandre Ayton (Los Angeles Lakers)
October 2025

On Inside the NBA, O’Neal blasted Ayton’s Lakers debut and laid out a three-item mandate: control the glass, protect the rim, punish mismatches. Ayton posted 10 points, six boards, one block and four turnovers in 34 minutes. O’Neal emphasized simple reads with stars drawing doubles: catch, finish strong, avoid fadeaways vs switches. The Lakers added Ayton for vertical spacing and size; progress hinges on physicality, screen/roll force, and turnover reduction.

Ayton signals Lakers rim-protecting identity in preseason

Deandre Ayton (Los Angeles Lakers)
October 2025

Ayton posted 14 points, eight rebounds and five assists in a preseason win over the Warriors and declared himself the defense’s anchor under J J Redick. He joined on a two-year 16.6 million dollar deal to address the size gap from last year’s playoff exit.
With LeBron James sidelined to start the season, Ayton’s early form is pivotal. The Lakers want dependable rim protection, boards and play finishing to stabilize opening weeks in a tight West while offensive timing with new lineups develops.

Lakers Shore Up Roster With Ayton and Smart, But Concerns Remain

Los Angeles Lakers
September 2025

The Lakers strengthened their squad with Deandre Ayton, Marcus Smart, and Jake LaRavia to support Luka Doncic and LeBron James. However, ESPN’s Kevin Pelton warned their perimeter defense remains a glaring weakness despite their potent offensive trio. Ayton’s arrival plugs last season’s rebounding gap, while Smart adds toughness, but age and inconsistency raise doubts about stopping elite guards. With Doncic locked in long-term, LA may still need another defensive-minded wing to truly contend in the Western Conference.

Deandre Ayton Joins Lakers After Portland Buyout

Deandre Ayton (Trail Blazers > Los Angeles Lakers)
July 2025

Free agent center Deandre Ayton has signed a two-year deal with the Lakers after finalizing a buyout with the Trail Blazers. He’ll earn $34 million next season and has a player option in Year 2.
Ayton chose the Lakers over several contenders after clearing waivers. He’ll anchor L.A.’s starting lineup alongside Luka Doncic, forming a top 2018 draft duo. He averaged 14.4 PPG and 10.2 RPG last season.

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