Former No. 1 overall pick Deandre Ayton was among the most significant free-agent signings made by the Los Angeles Lakers this summer. Considering that Ayton possesses the skills to be an elite big man, the potential of pairing him with Luka Doncic and LeBron James was one of the major storylines for the Lakers. Unfortunately, recent updates provided by the big man raise some concerns for the future.
“I haven’t. I haven’t,” Ayton revealed when asked about his experiences of working out with Luka Doncic and LeBron James. “[It’s] something I have been waiting on and just got to prepare. JJ [Redick] and the coaching staff probably have something where they can put stuff together for us to really build chemistry.”
Deandre Ayton’s statement could raise some concerns regarding the Lakers’ approach heading into the new season. The big man’s addition was significant as it addressed one of the team’s most glaring roster issues in the playoffs. Given that he is a quality big man who even fits the template laid out by the organization for the ideal pick-and-roll partner for Doncic, not having him work out with the Slovenian is worrisome.
Apart from Doncic, Deandre Ayton’s involvement with LeBron James also appears to have been limited. After the center was signed, he revealed that although Doncic was quick to welcome him to the team, James had not yet reached out to him.
After two preseason games, the Lakers have yet to see James and Doncic appear together on the floor. Doncic, who was being rested after his return from EuroBasket, is expected to be a part of the lineup in the upcoming games. However, James, who has been dealing with nerve irritation in his glute, could be sidelined for the entirety of the preseason.
With the regular season less than 13 days away, and considering how important his role will be, it is imperative that the Lakers’ superstar duo begin building chemistry with him.
Can Deandre Ayton Fit With Doncic and James?
Deandre Ayton has positioned himself as a more traditional big man. In an era of centers who can stretch the floor with perimeter shooting skill, Ayton fits the template of the reliable presence down low, securing rebounds and scoring on high-percentage shots.
While being a capable rebounder, he also possesses a versatile array of moves in the low post and mid-range. When factoring this in with his experience operating in a traditional pick-and-roll system, the former No. 1 overall pick has established himself as an effective center.
When keeping these aspects in mind, there is enough evidence to suggest that Ayton will be a solid fit next to Doncic and James. Given how intelligent both players are, integrating a quality big man like Ayton doesn’t theoretically pose a challenge.
The only concern is associated with familiarity. The modern game demands players to make split-second decisions to keep the offense running fluidly. The difference between certainty and hesitation can only be overcome by individual brilliance or team chemistry.
Ayton’s early struggles have already been witnessed during the preseason. While James and Doncic could undoubtedly bring the best out of Deandre Ayton, given the franchise’s title aspirations, developing familiarity with the big man will help this process unfold sooner rather than later.
