Luka Doncic helped Jaxson Hayes look like a competent starting center for the Los Angeles Lakers in 2024-25. Ayton arrived in Los Angeles with plenty of baggage. The new starting center knows this is a year to prove to himself against all of his critics and naysayers. Deandre Ayton is a clear upgrade for the Lakers no matter how you frame itDoncic made his stance on the addition of Ayton crystal clear at Lakers Media Day. A properly motivated Ayton goes a long way for the Lakers.