The Los Angeles Lakers’ recent addition of Deandre Ayton has sparked mixed reactions around the NBA. While the former No. 1 overall pick fills a critical need at center, not everyone is convinced it’s enough to elevate the Lakers into true championship contention. Among the skeptics is NBA analyst Paul Pierce, who offered a measured endorsement of the move—recognizing Ayton’s talent but questioning his impact.
Pierce: “I’m Not Sure He’s the Answer”
Pierce, speaking on Speak!, didn’t hold back in his analysis.
“I’m not sure if he’s the answer in winning a championship,” Pierce said. “If you had told me they were getting the Joker or Antetokounmpo, then I’d think, ‘Oh, they should be the favorites.’ But since they’re getting a guy who’s still trying to find his way in the NBA… I’m not sure how much he pushes the needle.”

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Ayton’s career thus far has been inconsistent. After a promising start in Phoenix that included a trip to the NBA Finals in 2021, his effort and engagement were called into question, especially during his brief stint in Portland. Now on his third team in six seasons, Ayton’s ceiling remains tantalizing—but unrealized.
Still, Pierce sees potential in the situation.
A Fresh Start and Veteran Leadership
“You get him in the culture with LeBron, with Luka, guys he’ll probably respect,” Pierce added. “Sometimes a change of scenery can make the lightbulb click for a young player. He’s giving you 16 and 10, that’s solid. He’s a lob threat, he can block shots… If the only thing he needs to fix is an attitude adjustment, I’m sure a couple of vets can work with that.”
Ayton echoed those sentiments, embracing the criticism and welcoming the challenge in L.A.
“It fuels me. It fuels me up completely. And it’s a different type of drive that I’ve been wanting to express for a long time,” Ayton said. “I think this is the perfect timing, here in the purple and gold.”
A Step, Not a Leap

On paper, Ayton offers exactly what the Lakers need—size, rim protection, rebounding, and a vertical threat in the pick-and-roll. But as Pierce pointed out, the Lakers’ issues extend beyond the paint.
“They’re still in need of more athleticism and more defense on the perimeter,” he said. “With the roster as constructed, a second-round ceiling is realistic.”
While Ayton joins All-Stars LeBron James and Luka Doncic on a star-heavy roster, questions remain. Can LeBron stay healthy at age 40? Will Luka avoid the nagging injuries that have plagued him in recent years? Can Ayton rediscover his motivation and consistency?
The Verdict
Ayton’s addition is a worthwhile gamble for a team in need of frontcourt help. The Lakers landed him at a discount—two years, $16.6 million—and the upside is real. But unless the Lakers add more perimeter defense and depth, Pierce’s projection may hold true: this team is better with Ayton, but far from a lock to contend.
As it stands, Ayton is a piece—not the missing one.