Lakers' forward Ronny Turiaf believes center Alexis Ajinca will be an excellent NBA player.

"He is going to be big-time," Turiaf said. "He has a body for a force and a defensive presence. Has a nose for blocking shots and is at the right place for his teammates as far as blocks, playing good defense, and help-side defense. And even when he's not blocking shots, he's going to bother stuff. He had a real good workout out in Boston. All I'm going to say is people are going to be very surprised. Nobody's talking about him right now.

"He is already in a state of mind where he is going to succeed," Turiaf said. "He might not be the best player, but he is still thinking he has a chance to be successful."

Ajinca said he would prefer to play overseas than in the NBDL. He has another year on his contract with Hyeres-Toulon, but he doesn't think it will be hard to get bought out.

"Next season I want to play here," Ajinca said. "I don't want to go back. I played much more stronger last [season]. I added some pounds. I feel better."