The Los Angeles Lakers got their big man! They scooped up DeAndre Ayton after he was waived by the Portland Trailblazers. Early looks at the deal make it seem like Ayton will make $34 million dollars next season, with $9 million of it being paid by the Lakers. That's one hell of a deal for Los Angeles... A lot of people complain about Ayton's effort and say that he makes dumb mistakes. I think playing alongside LeBron will be a bit of a rude awakening for him, but if he can live up to his potential then the Lakers just got themselves an absolute steal in the guy that got selected before Luka in the draft...
I think this is exactly what the Lakers need, a reliable big man. Ayton has already been battle-tested, and let’s be honest, the Suns were a much better team when he was still with them. After he left, they just weren’t the same. Now with the Lakers, a high-profile team, he brings that championship-level experience. As long as Ayton + Luka + Lebron stay healthy, I think they’ve got a real shot. And that lob pass from Luka... That fits perfectly with Ayton’s style of play.
After Myles Turner left the Pacers it left us with a hole at center. Was hoping they might pick up Ayton, but with Haliburton out for the year it was probably going to be hard to convince a decent center to come help us compete. I liked Ayton when he was with Phoenix and he can play.
The Lakers IMO won't dominate the West or even close. Lebron is still good, Luka is still good, and Ayton is good but I don't think it works. Maybe I'm wrong but I think Lebron just needs to hang it up and let the young guys shine.