The Los Angeles Lakers brought in some new players that they believe will help this team reach the next level and truly become championship contenders.

Social media erupted after seeing Deandre Ayton’s performance in his debut in gold and purple in the preseason game against Phoenix Suns.

The Los Angeles Lakers need their supporting cast to step up, and there are concerns that they won't get the best version of Deandre Ayton.

The Lakers snapped up Deandre Ayton not long after he hit free agency, negotiating a buyout with the Portland Trail Blazers. The last time he was a free agent, back in 2022, he received a four-year, $133 million offer sheet from the Indiana Pacers,

The Portland Trail Blazers have agreed to buy out the final year of center Deandre Ayton’s contract, making him a free agent, an NBA source has confirmed to The Oregonian/OregonLive. ESPN’s Shams Charania first reported the news Sunday night.

Through two preseason games, Ayton has struggled to find his rhythm, recording just eight points in 39 minutes. The 27-year-old center, who has faced criticism in the past regarding his work ethic and consistency, made a surprising admission to reporters on Wednesday.