Ayton, who is the first player to average at least 10 points and 10 rebounds in each of his first seven seasons since Dwight Howard , knows he has a lot to prove. He has heard the criticism and says he's ready to use it as motivation as he attempts to amend his script alongside LeBron James and Luka Doncic.

Ayton's addition makes the Lakers better on paper. But it will be what happens when no one is watching that demonstrates his biggest impact.