Did DeAndre Ayton Just Say That LeBron And Luka Are MIA In Training Camp?

The addition of DeAndre Ayton to the Los Angeles Lakers’ lineup this season has gotten fans excited, as the team has been looking for an impactful big man for quite some time. But there’s a catch: It appears that Ayton has yet to spend quality time with the pillars of the purple-and-gold squad.

Speaking to reporters at a media availability, the newly acquired Lakers center was having a blast explaining the different offensive and defensive schemes that he’s been trying out in training camp. When one reporter asked Ayton what it’s like playing alongside LeBron James and Luka Doncic, the Bahamian big man shook his head.

“I haven’t,” Ayton replied. “[It’s] something I’ve just been waiting on. I just gotta prepare.”

Ayton’s claim about James and Doncic’s non-participation in training camp has been corroborated by reporters like ESPN’s Dave McMenamin, which means Lakers fans have to grapple with the reality that their team’s two biggest stars haven’t been building chemistry with the roster thus far in training camp.

Notably, Doncic found a way to make his presence felt despite his absence from these crucial practice sessions. Earlier this week, McMenamin reported that the Slovenian guard “organized a team-bonding event” at a unique venue: the Porsche Driving Experience in Southern California. As the name suggests, this was a rather lavish gift from the future of the Lakers franchise.

Still, the Lakers have a need to see their basketball plays materializing with the participation of the two perennial All-Stars. Aside from Ayton, there are a number of new pieces that James and Doncic need to have a rapport with. This list includes former Defensive Player of the Year Marcus Smart and young forward Jake LaRavia.

If there are two players that can make just about any offense work, that would be the King and the Don. However, as sensationally skilled as this tandem is, effective team play takes time to cultivate. The sooner that James and Doncic join their teammates in training camp, the better.