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.

Deandre Ayton, the Los Angeles Lakers' new free agent signing, will be the ninth No. 1 overall pick to be a teammate of LeBron's. That's the most in league history. MORE: Lakers make 'insane' decision that could jeopardize future with LeBron, Luka

LeBron's agent Rich Paul has previously told ESPN that "LeBron wants to compete for a championship" and that remains his priority. With how close he is to retirement and their recent addition of Luka Dončić, LeBron's approach and the Lakers approach may no longer match.