LeBron Out, Lakers Lose; Ayton Underwhelms

The Lakers stumbled in the season opener, losing to Golden State while LeBron James was sidelined by sciatica, as Luka Dončić had 43 points, 12 rebounds and nine assists and Austin Reaves posted 26 points and nine assists. Los Angeles signed center Deandre Ayton to a two-year, $16.2 million deal after his buyout, viewing him as a low-cost answer at center who could fit alongside Dončić and Reaves. Ayton’s debut was underwhelming — 10 points, six rebounds and missed free throws — and drew immediate fan backlash and criticism from commentators including Shaquille O’Neal and analysts such as Steve Nash and Bleacher Report. Analysts question whether Ayton will consistently roll to the rim and be the vertical, rebounding, rim-protecting presence the Lakers need to address their interior and defensive inconsistencies. If Ayton clicks and builds chemistry with Dončić and Reaves, his bargain contract could pay off; otherwise L.A.’s center concerns and defensive weaknesses may persist.