Deandre Ayton shines as Lakers defy odds without LeBron James
The Los Angeles Lakers have kicked off the season with impressive momentum, establishing themselves as a formidable contender in the Western Conference. This success comes in the absence of their star forward, LeBron James, who is sidelined but expected to return soon. While the road ahead remains challenging, the Lakers have embraced their current situation, showcasing resilience and depth.
Ayton’s Impact on the Lakers’ Success
One of the standout performers during this early stretch has been Deandre Ayton, the center acquired in the offseason. Initially, Ayton faced skepticism regarding his fit within the Lakers’ system. Critics raised concerns about his work ethic and leadership qualities, stemming from his previous experiences. However, those doubts have been swiftly dispelled by his on-court performances, particularly in back-to-back games against the New Orleans Pelicans and the Milwaukee Bucks, where he demonstrated the skills and tenacity the Lakers have been longing for since trading away Anthony Davis.
Reaves Defends His Teammate
Austin Reaves, a fellow Laker, has vocally defended Ayton against the criticisms that have followed him. “It’s unfortunate that the world works this way, that you hear things about people before you’re around them, that people try to paint a narrative of character,” Reaves stated. He emphasized the importance of forming one’s own opinion about others based on personal interactions rather than preconceived notions. “The things that I heard about him was that he wasn’t coachable, moody, and it’s been completely opposite,” he added, highlighting Ayton’s remarkable adaptation to his new role.
Ayton’s Stellar Statistics
As the season progresses, Ayton has made a significant impact, averaging 16.2 points, 8.4 rebounds, 0.9 assists, and 0.9 blocks per game, all while shooting an impressive 69.2 percent from the field across 13 games. Particularly noteworthy are his last two outings, where he notched 20 points and secured double-digit rebounds in each game. This performance has not only solidified his status as a key player for the Lakers but also addressed the team’s pressing need for reinforcement in the frontcourt.
Looking Ahead
The 27-year-old center is currently in the first year of a two-year, $16.6 million contract, which includes a player option for the second season. He made the transition to Los Angeles after being bought out by the Portland Trail Blazers, and thus far, he has exceeded expectations. As the Lakers continue to navigate the early season without their leader, Ayton’s contributions will be critical in maintaining their competitive edge until James’ return.
