Deandre Ayton has been a key pickup for the Los Angeles Lakers this offseason, given their void at the center position. As the Mark Williams trade didn't go as planned last season, it left JJ Redick 's roster without a true traditional big man.
Though Dorian Finney-Smith and Jaxson Hayes shared the responsibility, it was certainly not enough. It was evident during the first-round series against the Minnesota Timberwolves . Heading into the summer, GM Rob Pelinka vowed to solve the center issue on the roster.
A few weeks later, the Lakers announced they had signed Deandre Ayton . According to reports, it was a two-year deal worth $16.6 million. There has been some skepticism surrounding the 27-year-old for a while now, with much chatter about his inconsistent efforts and hunger to win.
Nonetheless, Ayton hopes to turn a new page with the Purple and Gold, as was evident in his recent preseason performance against the Warriors .
"I'm just trying to let the world know and the league know that I'm the Lakers center and anchor of this defense," stated the former first oveall pick.
Ayton scored 14 points, eight rebounds and five assists in the preseason win against the Warriors. He was efficient at 6-for-8 from the field. Addressing his performance, Deandre also shed light on breaking the narrative around his defense.
Showing glimpses of high potential with the Suns , he appeared to lose focus in the middle. His disappointing stint with the Portland Trail Blazers is a prime example. Fortunate to get another shot at the limelight, Ayton is locked in and ready to break all misconceptions.
"Just really changing the narrative of protecting the rim at the defensive end. You know, JJ has really put it on me, put on emphasis that he wants his bigs protecting the rim. I'm just trying to be a big part of that," revealed Ayton, reflecting on the win against the Warriors.
Surely, a moment of pride for Deandre as he gets to don the Purple and Gold. At the same time, the seven-footer also understands the roles and responsibilities that come with it.
With superstars such as LeBron James and Luka Doncic in the lineup, Ayton knows his role on the offense will be limited. That said, the latest Lakers entrant has no complaints about it, even admitting to being a role player on the roster.
"Trust those playmakers, and if you get more than two shots, then that was how the game's supposed to go. JJ's trusting (Luka, LeBron, and Austin) to be our main, primary ball handlers, and me being the big man in the game. So, you know, I'm absorbing all of that, and yeah, it'd probably be hard not to touch the ball with them great playmakers, to be honest," said Ayton.
Nevertheless, it is a big moment for Ayton as he gears up to play No. 5 for the Lakers. A position that legends like Wilt Chamberlain, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar and Shaquille O'Neal have held in the past.
This story was originally reported by Basketball Network on Oct 13, 2025, where it first appeared in the Latest News section. Add Basketball Network as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
