Deandre Ayton addressed the media Tuesday during his introductory press conference with the Los Angeles Lakers, delivering candid thoughts about joining a franchise with lofty expectations and passionate fans.
“It is a platform that I cannot run from,” Ayton said when asked about critics questioning his consistency. “I can show what I really am and just be around some greats to really emphasize that for me as well.”
The former No. 1 overall pick described his decision-making process in free agency, noting that the chance to play alongside LeBron James and Luka Doncic was a major factor.
“Being around the two best playmakers in the league and just knowing the winning legacy this organization has, I know the expectations,” Ayton explained. He added that the Lakers’ desire to win immediately aligned with his own goals.
Ayton, who averaged 14.4 points and 10.2 rebounds for Portland last season, also spoke about how Doncic and James can elevate his game. “They turn their teammates into superstars and make them very important on the floor,” he said. “Just seeing that and finally getting the chance to experience it would be big for me.”
When asked about playing under the microscope in Los Angeles, the 26-year-old said the scrutiny motivates him. “It fuels me up completely,” Ayton admitted. “It’s a different type of drive that I’ve been wanting to express for a long time. Here in the purple and gold is the perfect timing.”
Ayton also reflected on the lessons from his stops in Phoenix and Portland, emphasizing the value of professionalism and winning. “When you don’t win in this league, you can be forgotten,” he noted. “I’ve learned a lot — true professionalism — and now I just want to show the world and prove everybody that I am a winner.”
Asked about his relationship with Doncic, whom he’s been compared to since entering the NBA, Ayton called it surreal. “It feels like a video game, like somebody set it up,” he said. “Luka is a once-in-a-generation player and I’m happy to be his teammate.”
On his role with the Lakers, Ayton kept it simple: “I’m here to fit in what Luka, JJ, and Bron want me to do. I just want to be part of the puzzle.”
