Latest news with #Lakers-related
USA Today
5 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.
Yahoo
14-05-2025
- Sport
- Yahoo
New Russell Westbrook, Lakers Report Surfaces Amid Nuggets Controversy
In July 2024, the Denver Nuggets signed veteran guard Russell Westbrook to a two-year, $6.8 million contract, including a player option for the 2025-26 season. This move followed his trade to the Utah Jazz, who waived him shortly after acquiring him from the Los Angeles Clippers. Westbrook's addition aimed to strengthen Denver's backcourt depth, especially after the departures of Kentavious Caldwell-Pope and Reggie Jackson. Prior to joining the Nuggets, Westbrook experienced a tumultuous period with the Los Angeles Lakers. His fit alongside LeBron James and Anthony Davis was often questioned, leading to a trade to the Utah Jazz in February 2023. The Jazz promptly bought out his contract, allowing him to sign with the Clippers, where he played a supporting role. Denver Nuggets guard Russell Westbrook (4)© Kyle Ross-Imagn Images On Tuesday, ESPN's Ramona Shelburne dropped an article detailing some internal controversy the Nuggets have been facing. Westbrook has been at the center of this, with one Nuggets player reportedly calling him immature. Advertisement Amid this report, Shelburne dropped a Lakers-related nugget. Per the ESPN insider, Denver contemplated signing Westbrook after the Lakers traded him in 2023. She also added that Westbrook nearly played himself out of the NBA rather than accepting a bench role with LA. The Nuggets' decision to avoid Westbrook initially proved fruitful, as they secured the NBA championship in 2023. However, the subsequent season presented challenges, including injuries and roster changes, as Denver was knocked out of the playoffs in the second round by the Minnesota Timberwolves. Westbrook's eventual signing provided the team with veteran leadership and experience, qualities deemed valuable for another championship pursuit. As the Nuggets prepare for their upcoming playoff series against the Oklahoma City Thunder, Westbrook's former team, his experience and energy could prove invaluable. The matchup presents an opportunity for Westbrook to contribute meaningfully against a familiar opponent, potentially influencing the series' outcome. Advertisement Related: Lakers Predicted to Trade for Luka Doncic's Former Teammate Related: LeBron James' NBA Accusation Surfaces After Mavericks Win Draft Lottery
