Steve Nash, the legendary former point guard of the Los Angeles Lakers, recently expressed his concerns about the team’s offseason acquisition of center Deandre Ayton. During an interview on “The Zach Lowe Show,” Nash shared his expectations for the former No. 1 overall draft pick, who signed a two-year contract worth $16.2 million.
Deandre Ayton’s Offseason Acquisition
Ayton, standing at 7 feet and previously a standout at the University of Arizona, has a player option for the 2026-27 season. Nash emphasized the need for Ayton to elevate his performance to contribute effectively to the Lakers.
Nash’s Expectations for Ayton
- Nash questioned if Ayton would embrace a more dynamic playing style.
- He highlighted the importance of Ayton rolling to the basket rather than opting for a more passive approach.
- Ayton’s ability to be a vertical threat is crucial for improving the Lakers’ offensive dynamics.
Nash remarked on Ayton’s previous success with the Phoenix Suns, particularly noting his role as a lob threat while playing alongside Hall of Famer Chris Paul. He stressed that for the Lakers to maximize their potential, Ayton must be willing to adapt his game.
Defensive Concerns for the Lakers
Nash also addressed the Lakers’ defensive capabilities. He pointed out that while the team has positional size, it lacks elite defenders. He believes that Ayton’s contributions will be important to maintain balance between offense and defense.
- Ayton’s offensive performance will impact the overall efficiency of the Lakers.
- Nash stressed the need for Ayton to be proactive in the offense to help star player Luka Doncic thrive.
As the Lakers look ahead to the season, Nash’s commentary highlights the critical role Deandre Ayton must play in shaping the team’s success. The upcoming season will test Ayton’s adaptability and the Lakers’ overall performance on both ends of the court.
