Latest news with #Ayton
USA Today
3 days ago
- Sport
- USA Today
Deandre Ayton talks about his relationship with Shaquille O'Neal
Deandre Ayton seems eager to prove himself now that he's a member of the Los Angeles Lakers. He said at his introductory press conference that he wants to improve his rim protection, something that has been a big letdown throughout his career, and that he wants to make his critics eat their words. He also revealed a somewhat surprising fact about his personal life that is Lakers-related. He said that he has a relationship with team legend Shaquille O'Neal that goes back to his days as a kid playing in the Nike Elite Youth Basketball League. Via Lakers Nation: 'Truly. It's the L.A. Lakers. I've been watching them all the time when I was younger as well,' Ayton said of the team's history when it comes to great centers. 'And just knowing the greats. One of the greats I do know is Shaquille O'Neal growing up. I had a good relationship with him. 'As a child growing up playing for EYBL teams, me and his son, Shareef O'Neal, and I've created that relationship with him. And playing in the playoffs and getting to talk to him, it's like 'Big Unc.' And we know how he had my back when I was winning as well. And just having that here is pretty cool.' As everyone knows, O'Neal was as dominant a big man as the league has ever seen. In eight seasons with the Purple and Gold, he averaged 27.0 points, 11.8 rebounds, 3.1 assists and 2.5 blocks a game, and he and Kobe Bryant led the franchise to three straight NBA championships in 2000, 2001 and 2002. Ayton was the No. 1 pick in the 2018 draft, and at seven feet and roughly 250 pounds, he was expected to be a sensation, especially given his 7-foot-5 wingspan and excellent athleticism. Even though he has solid career averages of 16.4 points and 10.5 rebounds a game, there is a sense that he has been something of a disappointment so far as a pro. He may not get the opportunity to increase his scoring average, given the fact that the Lakers boast LeBron James, Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves, but he can greatly improve his reputation around the league by dedicating himself to becoming a plus defender.
Time of India
4 days ago
- Sport
- Time of India
Is Deandre Ayton Really in the Same Statistical Class as Jokic, Giannis, AD, and Embiid? Exploring Jason McIntyre's Bold Take
Deandre Ayton (Image via Getty) Basketball debates thrive on bold statements, and Jason McIntyre's recent claim that Deandre Ayton is 'statistically in the same class' as Nikola Jokic, Giannis Antetokounmpo , Anthony Davis, and Joel Embiid—if only he wanted to be in Portland—has sent NBA fans into a frenzy. But does the data back up this hot take, or is it just another case of sports talk hyperbole? Let's dive in, stat by stat, and find out. The Big Men: A Statistical Snapshot Let's set the scene by looking at the statistical pillars of today's elite big men. Here's how these five stack up in their recent prime years: Player Points Per Game Rebounds Per Game Assists Per Game FG% Blocks Per Game Nikola Jokic 25–27 11–13 7–9 55–63% 0.7–1.0 Giannis Antetokounmpo 28–31 11–13 5–6 55–60% 1.0–1.5 Anthony Davis 24–27 10–12 2–4 51–56% 2.0–2.5 Joel Embiid 27–33 10–12 3–4 50–54% 1.5–2.0 Deandre Ayton 16–18 10–11 1.5–2 58–63% 0.7–1.0 While Deandre Ayton's field goal percentage is elite—often better than his superstar peers—his scoring and playmaking lag behind the MVP-caliber centers. Where Ayton shines is in efficiency and rebounding, but he hasn't yet matched the all-around dominance of Jokic, Giannis, or Embiid. Head-to-Head: Deandre Ayton vs. the Elite DeAndre Ayton on why he chose the Lakers and teaming up with Luka and LeBron Ayton Against Nikola Jokic - Ayton's averages vs. Nikola Jokic : 19.3 points, 10.3 rebounds, 1.5 assists per game (in 15 matchups). - Jokic's averages vs. Ayton: Typically higher, with more assists and a larger offensive role. Ayton Against Joel Embiid - Ayton's averages vs. Embiid: 12.6 points, 7.9 rebounds, 1.1 assists in 9 games. Ayton holds his own in these matchups, but the superstars often outpace him in scoring and playmaking, especially in high-stakes games. The 'Portland Problem': Did Ayton's Motivation Drop? Jason McIntyre's assertion that Ayton 'just didn't want to be in Portland' hints at the psychological side of sports. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like So sánh mức trượt giá: Hợp đồng tương lai (CFD) Bitcoin vs Ethereum IC Markets Tìm hiểu thêm Undo After being traded from Phoenix, Ayton's numbers and impact with the Trail Blazers were steady but not spectacular. Reports and speculation swirled about his engagement and fit with the team, fueling rumors that he wasn't fully invested in Portland's rebuild. The Case for Ayton's Statistical Class What Makes Deandre Ayton Special? - Efficiency: Deandre Ayton's shooting percentages rival or surpass those of Jokic and Giannis, making him one of the most efficient big men in the league. - Rebounding: He consistently averages double-digit rebounds, a hallmark of elite centers. - Durability: Ayton has avoided the injury woes that have plagued Davis and Embiid at times. What Holds Him Back? - Scoring Volume: Ayton's points per game trail the MVPs by a significant margin. - Playmaking: He's not the offensive hub that Jokic is, nor does he create for others at a high level. - Defensive Impact: While a solid rim protector, he doesn't anchor a defense like Davis or Embiid. My Verdict: Is Jason McIntyre's Take Justified? Statistically, Deandre Ayton is in the conversation with the NBA's best big men in terms of efficiency and rebounding, but he hasn't reached their heights as a scorer, playmaker, or defensive anchor. Jason McIntyre's claim is partly rooted in Ayton's potential—his physical tools and flashes of dominance suggest he could join the elite if fully motivated and given the right role. However, the numbers show there's still a gap between Ayton and the likes of Jokic, Giannis, AD, and Embiid. What If Ayton 'Wanted It'? Imagine a world where Ayton brings the same intensity as Giannis or the all-around brilliance of Jokic. With his size, touch, and athleticism, Ayton could be a perennial All-Star. For now, he's the NBA's ultimate 'what if'—a player with the tools to join the pantheon of greats, but still searching for the right situation and motivation to get there. Also read: Messi or Michael Jordan? Giannis Antetokounmpo Shuts Down IShowSpeed in Viral GOAT Debate In the end, Deandre Ayton's story is far from over. If he finds that fire, maybe Jason McIntyre's prediction won't sound so wild after all. Until then, the stats—and the eye test—say he's knocking on the door, but not quite inside the club. For real-time updates, scores, and highlights, follow our live coverage of the India vs England Test match here. Catch Manika Batra's inspiring story on Game On, Episode 3. Watch Here!
Yahoo
5 days ago
- Sport
- Yahoo
New York Knicks rumor suggests plans to replace Mitchell Robinson with top center in NBA free agency
Despite playing a key role in reaching the Eastern Conference Finals last month, a new NBA rumor suggests the New York Knicks were plotting to replace Mitchell Robinson next season with Deandre Ayton. Knicks big man Mitchell Robinson is a skilled rim protector and gifted rebounder. A case could be made that he is the best offensive rebounder in the league. He is a valuable talent. Unfortunately, he has proven throughout his seven-year career that he is an injury waiting to happen. The center has played in 60 or more games just three times. Advertisement That is why it is unsurprising that the front office has looked to find his replacement over the last couple of seasons. Well, despite a strong showing in the playoffs, the organization has not stopped looking for someone to take his spot. And they were reportedly interested in the best center in this year's NBA free-agent market. 'I'm told the New York Knicks, Los Angeles Clippers, Milwaukee Bucks, Indiana Pacers, Cleveland Cavaliers, and Denver Nuggets all had interest in [Deandre] Ayton. Before his decision to sign with the Lakers,' ESPN NBA insider Shams Charania reported this week. Related: Notable New York Knicks insider urges LeBron James to force trade to NYC if he's serious about title aspirations The Phoenix Suns and Portland Trail Blazers veteran was bought out of his contract by the latter club this week. The agreement will see him earn $25.6 million. So he can take a team-friendly deal with his next team. That is why multiple playoff teams with little to no cap space were pondering using their veteran exceptions on the center. In the end, he chose to play for the Lakers soon after hitting the open market. Advertisement Besides Pacers star Myles Turner, Ayton was probably the best center available this summer. Landing him — even on a short-term deal — would have been a major coup for the Knicks. Although he is not the offensive boards beast Robinson is, he is a far better scorer and high-level rebounder. The seven-year vet has averaged 16 points and 10 boards for his career. Robinson has been linked to trade rumors since New York's season ended last month. Related: New York Knicks felt Mike Brown was 'best option' for next coach despite 3 NBA title winners being on market? Related Headlines
Time of India
5 days ago
- Sport
- Time of India
Golden State Warriors Pass on Deandre Ayton Amid Center Crisis: Smart Strategy or Missed Opportunity?
Portland Trail Blazers center Deandre Ayton (2) and Denver Nuggets center Nikola Jokic (15) vie for the ball in the second half of an NBA basketball game on Feb. 10, 2025, in Denver. (AP Photo/David Zalubowski, File) In an offseason where big men have shifted across the Western Conference, the Golden State Warriors have made an eyebrow-raising decision: they chose not to pursue Deandre Ayton , who recently joined the Los Angeles Lakers after a buyout from the Portland Trail Blazers . This revelation, first reported by Monte Porter of NBC Sports, highlights Golden State's surprising disinterest in one of the most productive centers available. Why Deandre Ayton Made Sense for the Golden State Warriors Deandre Ayton's profile as a player aligns well with the Golden State Warriors ' frontcourt gaps. Standing 7 feet tall and weighing 250 pounds, the Bahamian center is known for his consistent production and versatility. In his seven NBA seasons, Ayton has averaged a double-double every year—making him the only active player with that feat. Deandre Ayton Career Averages Stat Value Points Per Game 16.5 Rebounds Per Game 10.5 Seasons with Double-Double Avg 7 (all seasons) Ayton's ability to stretch the floor with midrange shooting and his speed in transition make him a modern center fit. On paper, he appeared to be an ideal solution for Golden State's ongoing struggle to dominate the paint. Golden State Warriors' Mysterious Silence on Ayton Deandre Ayton hyped to Los Angeles Lakers' jersey (Source:@deandreayton/Instagram) Despite some reports suggesting otherwise, Porter clarified that 'the Warriors, according to multiple league sources, were not among the teams that lined up to gauge Ayton's interest.' Golden State's lack of effort to acquire Ayton is puzzling, especially considering how their current depth at center has been inconsistent. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Why seniors are rushing to get this Internet box – here's why! Techno Mag Learn More Undo The move (or lack thereof) suggests that either the front office has alternative plans in place—or that they didn't see Deandre Ayton as a fit for their system or culture. Current Frontcourt Situation in Golden State With Kevon Looney signing with the New Orleans Pelicans, the Golden State Warriors' center rotation has grown thinner. They now rely on young big men like Quinten Post and Trayce Jackson-Davis, both of whom have potential but lack the experience needed to anchor a playoff-caliber team. Meanwhile, Draymond Green—often forced into the small-ball center role—is aging and playing fewer minutes at that position. Head coach Steve Kerr has openly expressed a desire to preserve Green's longevity by reducing his center duties. Current Center Depth Chart Player Experience Level Notes Quinten Post Rookie Undeveloped but promising Trayce Jackson-Davis 2nd Year High energy, still learning Draymond Green Veteran Played center, now scaling back Kevon Looney (Gone) Veteran Signed with Pelicans in free agency Possible Alternatives To Ayton and What's Next for the Warriors The Golden State Warriors are reportedly still in the market for a proven center. Veteran Al Horford has been linked to the team, though he's also attracting interest from other franchises. If Horford signs elsewhere, Golden State will need to act swiftly to find another option. Possible Scenarios for Warriors - Free Agent Signing: Limited pool remains, but still a possibility. - Trade Option: Could explore deals using draft capital or depth players. - Internal Development: Bet on Post and Jackson-Davis to develop rapidly. - Stand Pat: Trust existing core to make a deep run with small-ball strategies. Given the competitive nature of the Western Conference, staying passive might not be a viable option. With teams like the Lakers, Nuggets, and Suns boasting strong frontcourts, the Warriors will need to make a move if they hope to stay competitive. Also read: Kevin Durant's Baseball Quip About Michael Jordan Leaves LeBron in Stitches on 'Mind The Game' Podcast Golden State's decision to ignore the Deandre Ayton sweepstakes could come back to haunt them if their center depth fails to hold up. Whether it's a matter of financial planning, locker room chemistry, or strategic fit, the Golden State Warriors' front office has made a bet—and only time will tell if it pays off. Catch Manika Batra's inspiring story on Game On, Episode 3. Watch Here!
USA Today
5 days ago
- Sport
- USA Today
Pelinka: Deandre Ayton is 'amazing solution' to Lakers' center woes
The Los Angeles Lakers' long search for a starting-caliber true center appears to be over after they signed Deandre Ayton to a two-year contract on Sunday. He was an unexpected addition to the free agent market after he agreed to a buyout of his contract with the Portland Trail Blazers on June 29. Ayton has career averages of 16.4 points and 10.5 rebounds a game through seven NBA seasons. He has been criticized for a lack of intensity and focus on the defensive end, but he is a big-time rim-running lob threat and a very solid rebounder. The Lakers have certainly needed a lob threat to play alongside Luka Doncic, as well as lots of help on the defensive boards. General manager Rob Pelinka issued a statement about Ayton's arrival, calling the big man an "amazing solution" to the team's center woes while praising Ayton's prior experience. Via Lakers Nation: 'Acquiring a starting-caliber center was the top priority for us this offseason, and we believe Deandre is an amazing solution to that objective and is an ideal player to add to our current core,' Pelinka said following the announcement of Ayton's signing becoming official. 'Deandre's size, mobility and athleticism will allow both paint scoring and paint protection. Deandre's playoff experience as a starter on an NBA Finals team also aligns well with our ultimate Lakers championship aspirations.' At his introductory press conference on Tuesday, Ayton said that getting to play with Doncic "feels like a video game" and that he's "super excited" about the opportunity. This could be his last real chance to establish a strong reputation across the league, not to mention earn a big contract, and if he truly taps into his potential, he could single-handedly raise the Lakers' ceiling by a considerable amount.
