Deandre Ayton became one of the Los Angeles Lakers’ headline signings this offseason. Due to the importance of his arrival and the role he is expected to play in the lineup, Ayton faces immense pressure to deliver as the new season approaches.

In this regard, two-time NBA MVP Steve Nash appeared on “The Zach Lowe Show” to highlight a crucial habit Ayton should avoid if he wants to perform effectively alongside Luka Doncic.

“Ayton, man, he has to step up this year,” Nash remarked. “We all know he can post good numbers, but the real question is whether he’s truly going to roll. That’s my main thing — will he roll hard to the basket? Because it doesn’t help the Lakers or Luka if he hesitates or pops out instead of being aggressive in the paint.”

Among the multiple expectations placed on Deandre Ayton as the Lakers’ main center, his biggest assignment is to be a reliable pick-and-roll partner for Luka Doncic. Although Ayton has a polished offensive game, Nash stressed that his biggest value will come from rolling to the rim and serving as a steady lob target.

“They really need him to become more explosive,” Nash added. “Dive hard, get vertical, and put pressure on the defense so Luka can operate freely and make everyone around him better.”

Beyond his offensive duties, the two-time MVP also mentioned that the Lakers will encounter defensive challenges. To compensate for that, Nash emphasized that Ayton must consistently pose a pick-and-roll threat to help Doncic maintain the team’s offensive rhythm.

The big man’s responsibilities are fairly defined, and it seems Ayton has shown a willingness to embrace them. Given his admiration for Doncic’s skill in running pick-and-rolls and his previous experience working with elite guards such as Chris Paul, there is reason to believe their pairing could be productive.

Deandre Ayton Has Been Limited In Preseason

Deandre Ayton’s preseason debut was one of the most anticipated moments for Lakers fans this offseason. Given the excitement surrounding his arrival and the potential link-up with Luka Doncic, many felt Ayton’s first showing was somewhat disappointing.

It should be mentioned that neither Luka Doncic nor LeBron James suited up for that contest, yet Ayton’s hesitancy to shoot came as a surprise.

Even though the big man has since turned in some steady performances, it’s obvious that he still hasn’t completely blended into the team’s system. Moreover, with limited floor time alongside Doncic and James, concerns may be rising within the Lakers camp.

Through four preseason contests, Deandre Ayton has averaged 8.0 points, 9.0 rebounds, 1.2 steals, and 2.0 blocks per outing while shooting 48.1% from the field. Although those numbers are respectable, the Purple and Gold will need a more dominant presence from their starting big man.

With that in mind, the upcoming preseason finale against the Sacramento Kings on Friday night could serve as a vital test for Ayton. As both Doncic and Austin Reaves are projected to see extended minutes, the Lakers center will get a valuable opportunity to develop on-court chemistry.