After trading Anthony Davis midway through last season, the Los Angeles Lakers entered the offseason searching for a new starting center. That search ended when they signed Deandre Ayton following his buyout with the Portland Trail Blazers.
Through two preseason games, Ayton has struggled to find his rhythm, recording just eight points in 39 minutes. The 27-year-old center, who has faced criticism in the past regarding his work ethic and consistency, made a surprising admission to reporters on Wednesday.
When asked about working out or scrimmaging with LeBron James and Luka Doncic this offseason, Ayton replied simply, “I haven’t.”
While James and Doncic have yet to appear in the Lakers’ first two preseason games, Ayton’s statement still raised eyebrows among fans and analysts. With Doncic entering his first full season in Los Angeles, expectations are high that the Lakers can take a major step forward in the 2025-26 campaign.
Ayton, meanwhile, is looking to rebound after tying career lows last season in both points per game and defensive rebounds. Despite his recent struggles, he remains a capable contributor when locked in. The former No. 1 overall pick has averaged a double-double for his career, with 14.4 points and 10.2 rebounds per game. His best season came in 2019-20, when he averaged 18.2 points and 11.5 rebounds for the Phoenix Suns.
As the Lakers gear up for another playoff push, Ayton will need to build chemistry with James, Doncic, and Austin Reaves to carve out a consistent role in Los Angeles’ offense.