At the start of the 2025 offseason, Rob Pelinka was under heavy fire. The Lakers had just been eliminated in the first round of the playoffs. Dorian Finney-Smith, their best perimeter defender and an elite two-way wing, left in free agency.

Former Arizona Wildcats power forward Deandre Ayton found a new home this offseason, signing a two-year deal with the Los Angeles Lakers on July 2, 2025. Ayton

At his introductory press conference, new Lakers center Deandre Ayton identified two areas of his game that he wants to improve in the most.

The Los Angeles Lakers’ recent acquisition, Deandre Ayton, has captured the attention of NBA fans and analysts alike—not just for his on-court potential but also for the exciting new partnership forming with superstar Luka Doncic.

I have a team that’s ready to win a championship and has the best two playmakers in the world. I know the type of player I am when I have players of that caliber around me —

Jason McIntyre doesn't feel that calling Deandre Ayton one of the best bigs in the NBA is that much of a stretch.

Paul Pierce sounds off on the Lakers' Deandre Ayton signing, explaining why he’s not convinced it’s the right move for L.A.

Aiming to reinforce their frontcourt, the Los Angeles Lakers made headlines this offseason by acquiring center Deandre Ayton.