In the offseason, the Los Angeles Lakers made it a priority to find stability at the center position. After a potential trade for Mark Williams of the Charlotte Hornets fell through at the deadline, Los Angeles knew it needed to strengthen its frontcourt depth.
That opportunity came when Deandre Ayton was bought out of his contract with the Portland Trail Blazers. Shortly after, Ayton signed a two-year, $16.6 million deal with the Lakers, stepping into a role as a potential third or fourth scoring option behind LeBron James, Luka Doncic, and Austin Reaves.
However, when the Lakers traveled to Portland on Monday night, all three of those stars were sidelined due to injuries. That left Ayton as the primary option — and he delivered in a big way against his former team.
Returning from a brief absence due to back spasms, Ayton erupted for 29 points, 10 rebounds, three blocks, and two assists, leading the Lakers to a hard-fought eight-point victory over the Trail Blazers. The performance was not only a statement win for Los Angeles but also a personal redemption game for Ayton, who was no longer wanted by the Blazers.
The victory improved the Lakers to 6-2 overall and a perfect 4-0 on the road, marking one of the team’s best starts in recent years.
Ayton and the Lakers will return home on Wednesday to face San Antonio Spurs phenom Victor Wembanyama, in what promises to be another marquee frontcourt matchup.
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