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NBA
James Worthy gives brutal verdict on whether LA Lakers should keep Deandre Ayton
TL;DR
James Worthy doubts Deandre Ayton is the right center for the LA Lakers. He believes the team needs more force, rim protection, and rebounding from that position.
Key points
- James Worthy questions Deandre Ayton's fit with the Lakers.
- The Lakers' playoff exit exposed roster issues.
- Worthy calls for more force and rebounding from the center position.
Deandre AytonLos Angeles LakersOklahoma City Thunder
Photo by Katelyn Mulcahy/Getty Images
James Worthy did not sound convinced that Deandre Ayton is the right center for the Los Angeles Lakers moving forward.
The Lakers’ playoff exit against the Oklahoma City Thunder exposed several roster questions, but the frontcourt discussion may be the loudest.
Worthy’s verdict was blunt because he believes the Lakers need more force, rim protection, and rebounding from that position than Ayton provided.
Photo by Kenneth Richmond/Getty Images
Deandre Ayton’s fit gets a harsh James Worthy review
James Worthy questioned whether Ayton’s style gives the Lakers what they need at center.
“His game is what it is. It’s just not what’s needed. He doesn’t like contact, you have to have some physicality at that position,” Worthy said.
That criticism cuts to the heart of the Ayton debate. He can score efficiently, finish around the basket, and produce solid numbers, but Worthy wants a center who embraces the dirty work.
The Lakers already have Luka Doncic, LeBron James, and to drive the offense. What they need behind them is a big who can set hard screens, protect the rim, clean the glass, and absorb contact.
Q&A
What did James Worthy say about Deandre Ayton's future with the Lakers?
James Worthy expressed skepticism about Deandre Ayton being the right center for the Lakers, citing a need for more force and rebounding.
Why did the Lakers' playoff exit raise questions about their roster?
The Lakers' playoff exit against the Oklahoma City Thunder highlighted significant concerns, particularly regarding their frontcourt performance.
What specific qualities does Worthy believe the Lakers need from a center?
Worthy believes the Lakers need a center who can provide more force, rim protection, and rebounding than Ayton has offered.
