DeAndre Ayton calls Luka Doncic once in a generation talent after joining Los Angeles Lakers
NBA fans were surprised this week after a big move in Los Angeles. On Tuesday, Deandre Ayton, the former No. 1 draft pick, officially joined the Los Angeles Lakers. Ayton didn't hold back his excitement as he spoke about playing with Luka Doncic, a player he once stood above in the 2018 draft order.
But now, the two stars are teammates, and the energy is strong.
DeAndre Ayton praises
Luka
Doncic at Lakers Los Angeles debut in California
On July 9, DeAndre Ayton was introduced as the newest Los Angeles Lakers player during a press event in El Segundo, California. Ayton, 26, wore a sleek black suit and smiled as he talked about teaming up with Luka Doncic.
"This feels like a video game," Ayton said. "Luka is a once-in-a-generation player and I'm lucky to play with him."
Ayton was drafted No. 1 overall in 2018 - two spots ahead of Luka Doncic.
Seven years later, they're teammates. Ayton has signed a two-year, $16.6 million contract, with the second year as a player option. He was bought out of his deal with the Portland Trail Blazers.
The Lakers needed a strong center. Ayton fits the role well with career stats of 16.4 points, 10.5 rebounds, and one block per game.
He also said Luka looked 'super ripped' and was excited about joining a team focused on winning right now.
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DeAndre Ayton and Jake LaRavia excited to play with Luka Doncic and
LeBron James
DeAndre Ayton talked about his past seasons with honesty. He said his time in Portland was difficult because the team wasn't winning.
"When you don't win, people forget you," he said. "That's why I picked the Lakers. They want to win, and so do I."
He called LeBron James and Luka Doncic 'high IQ players' who make others better. 'They both average nine assists. They make teammates feel important,' Ayton said.
Jake LaRavia, also introduced at the event, signed a two-year, $12 million deal.
He added, 'I'm here to learn from Luka and LeBron. It's a dream come true.'
LeBron James, now 40, has opted into the final year of his $52.6 million contract. According to his agent
Rich Paul
, LeBron still wants to compete for a championship.
Also Read:
Stephen Curry's summer swing hits a high note with Redbone Nokia and Good News playlist
The Lakers have now filled their 15-man roster. Reports from ESPN say the team could offer Luka Doncic a four-year, $229 million extension as early as August 2.
Game On Season 1 continues with Mirabai Chanu's inspiring story. Watch Episode 2 here.
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