Deandre Ayton had a strong showing for his Los Angeles Lakers on Sunday night during their preseason game against the Golden State Warriors.
With 14 points, eight rebounds, and five assists, he gave many Lakers fans hope about what they will see in the new season.
Following the game, Ayton spoke about the message he wanted to send.
“Just really changing the narrative of protecting the rim on the defensive end. J.J. put an emphasis that he wanted his bigs protecting the rim. I’m just trying to let the world know and the league know that I’m the Lakers center and anchor of this defense,” Ayton said.
"I'm just trying to let the world know and the league know that I'm the Lakers center and anchor of this defense."
Deandre Ayton (14 points, 8 rebounds, and 5 assists) speaks with @LakersReporter after the Lakers defeat the Warriors, 126-116 in the preseason. pic.twitter.com/vpQHJYz1et
— Spectrum SportsNet (@SpectrumSN) October 13, 2025
This is exactly what the Lakers wanted to see from Ayton when they signed him during the summer.
They have some strong offensive power, and it’s their defense that needs the most work.
Ayton can assist with that, and Sunday’s game showed that he is growing comfortable with his new squad.
As always, the Lakers have a lot to prove in 2025-26, but Ayton does as well.
His last few seasons have been undeniably mixed, with critics stating that his heart wasn’t in the game and he was a shell of his former self.
Ayton is looking to change that opinion and remind everyone what he can accomplish when he’s with the right team that believes in him.
He is looking to rehabilitate his image, and the Lakers want his defensive power.
If he regularly plays like he did on Sunday, Ayton could become one of the most important parts of the team’s plans for the year.
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