Deandre Ayton Reflects on LeBron's Influence

In a recent game against the Utah Jazz, Deandre Ayton had a moment that brought back fond memories of his youth. The 7-foot center received an alley-oop pass from LeBron James, marking his second memorable connection with the superstar.

After scoring on the lob, Ayton shared with James, 'That's my second alley-oop from you. The first one was when I was in eighth grade at your camp,' highlighting the long-standing influence LeBron has had on him.

Ayton recalled the 2014 LeBron James camp in Las Vegas, where he was a rising sophomore and received his first lob from James. 'I remember the play and everything. He was court hopping and playing with the campers and I remember the one play of him in the drill with me,' Ayton said, reflecting on the significance of that moment.

This nostalgic connection underscores LeBron's impact on younger players and the importance of veteran leadership in the Lakers organization. Ayton finished the game with an impressive 20 points and 14 rebounds, while LeBron contributed 11 points and 12 assists in his season debut after missing 14 games due to sciatica. 'I told Bron, I said good, those are easy buckets right there,' Ayton mentioned, emphasizing how LeBron's passing makes the game easier for him. 'He's running as fast as me down the floor.

You don’t think that it's his 23rd year,' he added, praising LeBron's remarkable athleticism. The Lakers won the game 140-126, showcasing their offensive capabilities, especially with LeBron back to orchestrate the offense.

Ayton's reflection on his journey from a camper to an NBA teammate with LeBron illustrates the importance of mentorship in shaping the team's culture and the younger players' development. As the season progresses, the Lakers are looking to harness this blend of experience and youthful energy to make a significant playoff push, aiming for the conference finals as analysts have suggested.

LeBron's return to the lineup has sparked optimism within the team, and moments like Ayton's alley-oop serve as a reminder of the legacy and influence of veterans like LeBron on their teammates. Overall, Ayton's story encapsulates the essence of growth, mentorship, and the continuous cycle of influence that exists in the NBA, particularly within the Lakers' organization.