The Los Angeles Lakers desperately needed a center this offseason. And after Brook Lopez and Myles Turner went elsewhere, signing the recently bought-out Deandre Ayton felt like the only way to salvage an otherwise quiet offseason.

Bronny James Responds to Speculation About LeBron James Leaving the Lakers originally appeared on Athlon Sports. Los Angeles Lakers star LeBron James recently wrapped up his 22nd NBA season and has already committed to another year after opting into his $52.6 million player option.

Shortly after picking up his player option for next season, James' agent, Rich Paul, not-so-subtly hinted his client would be monitoring what the Lakers to do while attempting to build a long-term contender. That could mean nothing more happens this summer ... or something else.