The Lakers finally got what they wanted – Diandre Ayton, the first pick of the 2018 NBA draft, is signing a two-year deal worth $34 million for the upcoming season! Yes, you read that right, $34 million for a player who has averaged 16.4 points and 10.5 rebounds over the past seven seasons, with an impressive 59% shooting. Ayton was the star of the Phoenix Suns, leading them to the NBA Finals in 2021, but now he’s ready to shine in Los Angeles alongside Luka Dončić and LeBron James. But wait… while everyone is celebrating this addition, there’s a real drama brewing behind the scenes!
According to NBA insider John Gambadoro, LeBron and Austin Rivers are not thrilled about playing with Dončić! Yes, really! Apparently, LeBron doesn’t like playing with Luka, and Rivers doesn’t like getting the ball just two seconds before the shot clock expires. Sounds like chaos in the Lakers locker room! Gambadoro claims the Lakers will now build the team around Dončić, not LeBron, which is a huge shift.
Statistics show that Austin Rivers actually played better with Dončić on the court, but that doesn’t change the fact that harmony is lacking in the locker room. Will LeBron, who has been the team leader for years, accept that Dončić is now the main guy? And what does this mean for the Lakers’ future?
All this comes amid speculation that LeBron might leave the club if he doesn’t see real chances to win a title. Dončić, at just 26 years old, seems to be the only sure long-term plan for the Lakers, who expect him to sign a contract extension in August.
So, we have the great Ayton arriving, star Dončić taking control, and LeBron possibly losing patience. Will the Lakers manage to put this puzzle together or will it all fall apart? Fans, grab your popcorn, because this is going to be a real NBA soap opera!
What do you think? Is Dončić the new king of the Lakers or will LeBron prove why he’s a legend? And where does Ayton fit in all this? Drop a comment and let’s see whose side you’re on!
