Despite the Los Angeles Lakers' hope that Deandre Ayton can solve their issues at center next season, at least one person who used to work for one of his former clubs is pessimistic about the 26-year-old making a positive impact.

Conversely, while James' future in L.A. still remains up in the air, it's expected that Doncic will re-sign with the team, according to ESPN's Dave McMenamin. The Lakers can offer Doncic a four-year, $229 million extension on Aug. 2, or he can sign a three-year, $165 million extension with a 2028 player option.

According to ESPN Insider, Shams Charania, on July 2nd, the Los Angeles Lakers acquired free agent Deandre Ayton. The former No. 1 overall pick from 2018 is set to earn $34 million next season for the Lakers.