The Los Angeles Lakers were underrated title contenders entering the 2025 postseason.
Acquiring Luka Doncic helped breathe life into a storied Western Conference that failed to find a consistent rhythm before the Feb. 6 trade deadline.
The only problem was that the Lakers had no choice but to sacrifice Anthony Davis in the blockbuster deal on Feb. 2 for Doncic, which negatively affected their frontcourt depth.
With head coach JJ Redick refusing to place his faith in Jaxson Hayes, the Minnesota Timberwolves steamrolled the Lakers in their first-round playoff series.
To the Lakers’ credit, the franchise prioritized signing former No. 1 overall pick Deandre Ayton as Davis' ideal last Wednesday. Ayton officially joined Los Angeles on Sunday.
“OFFICIAL: Welcome to the Purple & Gold, Deandre,” The Lakers announced on X/Twitter.
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Ayton was later praised by the organization’s general manager Rob Pelinka.
“Deandre’s size, mobility and athleticism will allow both paint scoring and paint protection,” Pelinka said. “Deandre’s playoff experience as a starter on an NBA Finals team also aligns well with our ultimate Lakers championship aspirations.”
Ayton is most known for occupying a valuable frontcourt role with the Phoenix Suns during their 2021 run to the NBA Finals. Ayton contributed 15.8 points, 11.8 rebounds, and 1.1 blocks per game with the Suns that postseason, shooting 65.8% from the field in 22 contests.
The Arizona product’s lack of effort in high-stakes moments can be frustrating at times, but his well-rounded skill set enables him to compensate for that concerning weakness.
Whether controlling the defensive glass, playing high IQ basketball in pick–and-roll situations, or erasing shots around the rim, Ayton makes a noticeable impact on both ends.
If the former Portland Trail Blazers center is up to the challenge of performing under the brightest lights imaginable, he’ll be a valuable complementary piece for the Lakers next season.
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