DeAndre Ayton Reveals Luka Doncic Reached Out After Lakers Deal—But LeBron James Hasn’t Sent a Single Word

The Los Angeles Lakers just landed a major frontcourt addition in DeAndre Ayton, but the newest Laker’s introductory press conference delivered more than just smiles and soundbites—it sparked serious intrigue. In a moment that had reporters raising eyebrows and fans flooding social media, Ayton shared that while he received a congratulatory text from Mavericks superstar Luka Dončić after signing with the Lakers, he has yet to hear a word from LeBron James.

That’s right. Not a single message from the face of the franchise.

“I heard from Luka right away,” Ayton said with a smirk, seated in front of the gold-and-purple backdrop. “He texted me, said congrats, and told me I’m gonna kill it in L.A. That meant a lot, man. But LeBron? Nah, haven’t heard from him yet.”

The room fell silent for a moment as the implications of Ayton’s words settled in. He wasn’t throwing shade—his tone was more puzzled than petty—but the quote instantly ignited speculation. Is something up between LeBron and Ayton already? Was the signing more of a front office move than a “LeBron-approved” acquisition? Or is this just a case of missed timing?

Whatever the reason, Ayton’s candid admission has the NBA world buzzing.

Luka Shows Love—LeBron Stays Quiet

Luka Doncic, who spent several years battling Ayton in the Western Conference, had no obligation to reach out. But he did. Their connection isn’t exactly deep, but there’s clear mutual respect. Drafted first and third overall in 2018, Ayton and Luka will always be linked. It’s also worth noting that for a brief period this offseason, rumors swirled about the Mavericks’ interest in Ayton—potentially pairing him with Luka before the Lakers ultimately made their move.

Whether it was a “what could’ve been” text or just professional courtesy, Luka’s message stands in stark contrast to the silence from the Lakers’ captain.

LeBron James has long been considered a master recruiter and the unofficial general manager of any team he’s part of. From getting Anthony Davis to L.A. to nudging the front office toward Kyrie, CP3, or whoever the flavor of the month is, Bron typically makes his voice heard. And when a major piece like Ayton joins the roster? It’s common sense to assume LeBron would welcome him with open arms—or at least a quick text.

But so far? Radio silence.

And that’s not sitting right with some fans or analysts.

“Is There Trouble Already?”

Social media had a field day with the quote.

“Luka texted Ayton, but LeBron didn’t? Something smells off already,” one user posted on X, racking up over 25,000 likes in minutes.

Another fan added: “Ayton better not think he’s safe yet. If LeBron doesn’t text you, he probably doesn’t want you.”

ESPN’s Kendrick Perkins weighed in on the drama during a segment on NBA Today: “I don’t like that. I really don’t. If you’re the leader of the team, if you’re the captain, and the front office just added a 7-footer to help you chase a chip, you say something. You don’t leave that man hanging. That’s not how you build chemistry.”

Perk’s not the only one with questions. The silence from LeBron could mean several things: perhaps he wasn’t fully on board with the Ayton signing, perhaps he was caught off guard by the news, or maybe he just hasn’t had a moment to reach out.

Still, in today’s hyper-connected world—especially among athletes who live on their phones—the idea that LeBron “just hasn’t gotten around to it” feels flimsy at best.

Ayton’s Fit, and LeBron’s Vision

Ayton is undeniably talented. A 7-foot center with soft hands, elite athleticism, and the ability to finish around the rim, he’s averaged 16.7 points and 10.4 rebounds per game since entering the league. But what’s been more controversial is his consistency, motor, and perceived lack of fire.

In Phoenix and Portland, coaches tried to ignite something more in Ayton—a bit more edge, more urgency. At times he showed it. Other times? Not so much.

LeBron, meanwhile, is notoriously demanding. He expects effort, accountability, and championship-caliber focus from everyone he shares the court with. He’s never been one to sugarcoat it. So maybe the hesitation comes from uncertainty about how Ayton will handle the pressure in L.A.—pressure that’s far different from Phoenix or Portland.

Still, Ayton seems ready.

“I know what people say about me,” he said when asked about his past criticism. “And I’ve heard worse. But this is a new chapter. I’m here to dominate. I’m here to win. Whatever role the team needs, I’m locked in.”

And then he added: “I’d love to build that chemistry with Bron. Whenever he’s ready.”

A not-so-subtle reminder that the ball is in LeBron’s court.

What This Means for the Lakers Locker Room

Team chemistry is often underrated in championship runs. The Lakers know this better than most—from the bubble championship in 2020 to their flameouts in more recent years, the vibes in the locker room have often dictated success just as much as Xs and Os.

Ayton being left on “read,” metaphorically or literally, could either be nothing… or the first crack in the foundation of this season’s version of the Lakers.

Head coach J.J. Redick, recently hired to inject a modern approach and a player’s touch to the team’s strategy, addressed the Ayton comment carefully.

“Look, I don’t read too much into that stuff. Bron’s a pro. DeAndre’s a pro. Sometimes timing is just off. We’re gonna get in the gym, we’re gonna work. That’s what matters.”

But privately, you have to imagine the coaching staff is keeping an eye on how this dynamic develops. Ayton is expected to take major minutes in the frontcourt. Whether alongside Anthony Davis or spelling him, his presence will be key in helping the Lakers avoid another first-round exit.

The question is: Will LeBron embrace him as a brother-in-arms, or treat him like just another short-term rental?

Ayton’s Message to Laker Nation

While the LeBron part of the presser dominated headlines, Ayton was mostly upbeat and energized throughout. He spoke about his desire to “bring some fire back to the paint,” to become a defensive anchor and a high-efficiency finisher. He mentioned the influence of his Bahamian roots and how he’s ready to be held accountable on a team with real championship aspirations.

“I’ve played in the shadows long enough,” he said. “It’s time for me to shine, and L.A. is the biggest stage in basketball. Let’s get to work.”

And yet… the shadow of silence from LeBron James continues to linger.

Maybe a text will come soon. Maybe LeBron’s playing chess, seeing how Ayton handles the attention. Maybe he wants Ayton to earn that welcome, prove himself first in practice and preseason. Maybe it’s all strategic.

But in a league driven by perception, image, and locker room hierarchy, even a missing message can send a message.

So now the countdown begins.

Not to the season opener. Not to training camp.

To a text.

From the King.

Will LeBron break the silence and welcome his new teammate? Or is this the first sign that not everyone in Lakerland is on the same page?

One thing’s for sure: DeAndre Ayton is here. Luka showed love. And LeBron?

Well… he’s still typing. Maybe.