Los Angeles Lakers top free agent signing Deandre Ayton admits to critics fueling his fire heading into first season with the franchise.

Deandre Ayton discussed his excitement about joining the Los Angeles Lakers and being back in a winning situation.

The Golden State Warriors are a "strong contender" to bring back De'Anthony Melton in free agency despite the Los Angeles Lakers' reported interest in the veteran guard, NBA insider Marc Stein reported on Tuesday.

Salt Lake City, Utah, USA; Brooklyn Nets guard De'Anthony Melton (8) dribbles against Utah Jazz guard Elijah Harkless (16) during the second quarter at Delta Center. Mandatory Credit: Rob Gray-Imagn Images / Rob Gray-Imagn Images Now that the Los Angeles Lakers have filled their biggest roster need by signing Deandre Ayton to be their starting center,

The Los Angeles Lakers front office might be perplexed by the idea of landing a perfect center-court player and slipping away from a potential trade. While both things are not going hand in hand, the Golden State Warriors are emerging as a potential suitor for a star guard.