CHARLOTTE, NORTH CAROLINA – NOVEMBER 10: Deandre Ayton #5 of the Los Angeles Lakers looks on during the first half of a basketball game against the Charlotte Hornets at Spectrum Center on November 10, 2025 in Charlotte, North Carolina. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by David Jensen/Getty Images)

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Justin Grasso

By Justin Grasso

Contributing Sports Writer

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LeBron James is back for the Los Angeles Lakers.

On Tuesday night, the superstar forward took the court to make his 2025-2026 season debut after a battle with a sciatic injury. Considering the return was historic, all eyes have been on LeBron since the moment he was upgraded to questionable on the eve of the matchup.

ESPN’s Dave McMenamin spoke to league sources regarding the difference LeBron James’ presence could make for a Lakers team that’s been off to a decent start, with Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves having big performances. Gathering comments from league executives, one anonymous Western Conference exec didn’t hold back on the LA center, Deandre Ayton, suggesting that the circumstances might frustrate LeBron over time.

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"I imagine Deandre's going to be a problem. He's just not smart enough of a player," the executive told ESPN. "And the inconsistent effort, LeBron usually has issues with, to say the least."

SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA - OCTOBER 05: Deandre Ayton #5 of the Los Angeles Lakers backs in on Quinten Post #21 of the Golden State Warriors in the first half of a NBA preseason basketball game at Chase Center on October 05, 2025 in San Francisco, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images)

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Reputation Is Everything…

Deandre Ayton’s reputation in the NBA took a hit during his days with the Phoenix Suns. Despite being a top pick for the organization, Ayton left his original franchise on a low note, seemingly on bad terms with the homegrown face of the franchise, Devin Booker.

When Ayton landed with the Portland Trail Blazers, there was an expectation that he could reach another level by landing with a young, up-and-coming team. During his second and final season in Portland, Ayton averaged 14.4 points and 10.2 rebounds in 40 games.

After two short seasons, Ayton and the Blazers parted ways through a buyout. On his way out, his reputation took a hit once again. That didn’t scare the LA Lakers away. With a need for a productive big man, the win-now Lakers were willing to invest over $15 million over two years in Ayton.

In the 13 games Ayton played for the Lakers, leading up to Tuesday’s action, the veteran center posted averages of 16.2 points (69 percent shooting), with 8.4 rebounds, and nearly one block per game. All seems well so far.

With LeBron James in the mix, Ayton checked in for 30 minutes on Wednesday, shooting 10-13 from the field to score 20 points, and racking up 14 rebounds. He helped the Lakers take down the Utah Jazz with a 140-126 victory.

While the opinions about Ayton’s pairing with LeBron weren’t all bad, the one Western Conference exec surely gave the veteran some bulletin board material moving forward. The Lakers will get a lengthy break before taking the court for a rematch with the Jazz over the weekend. Barring any unexpected setbacks, LeBron James should be back on the floor.

For all the latest NBA news and rumors, head over to Newsweek Sports.

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