The Los Angeles Lakers’ biggest signing in free agency was center Deandre Ayton and he is set to be the newest core piece for the team.
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While he is set to play a crucial role for the Lakers, Ayton told reporters Wednesday he has not worked with Luka Doncic and LeBron James with less than two weeks before the season begins.
“I haven’t,” Ayton said of playing with both superstars. “Something I’ve just been waiting on, just gotta prepare. JJ (Redick) and the coaching staff probably have something put together for us to really build chemistry.”
Ayton has competed in the Lakers’ preseason matchups, but neither Doncic or James have taken the floor yet.
On Thursday, Lakers head coach JJ Redick clarified saying Ayton practiced a couple of times with Doncic last week during training camp. However, Ayton has not gotten the opportunity to share the floor with both Doncic and James.
“DA got a couple of days with Luka last week,” Redick said. “No one’s gotten any time with LeBron, not just DA. That’s just reality.”
James is currently dealing with a nerve issue in his glute, and will be sidelined for at least three to four weeks due to sciatica on his right side. He will be out for the start of the 2025-26 season.
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Ayton is essentially the Lakers’ X-factor heading into the 2025-26 season. After losing Anthony Davis in the blockbuster trade that shocked the league last February, Los Angeles played small in the playoffs and it cost them.
Facing the Minnesota Timberwolves in the first round of the NBA playoffs, the Lakers’ weaknesses were evident as the team lacked perimeter defenders and height. The matchup with the Timberwolves proved to be unfavorable, and it was clear Los Angeles would need to make key additions over the offseason.
Ayton’s success directly correlates with how far the Lakers go this season. If he plays well, they’re bound to go far. But if he plays poorly, the Lakers could be doomed for another disappointing end to their season.
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