UPDATE: The Los Angeles Lakers emerged victorious against the Memphis Grizzlies with a decisive 120-114 win on November 26, 2023, powered by a revitalized performance from center Deandre Ayton. Following a frustrating outing just two days prior, Ayton rebounded impressively, finishing with 15 points, 8 rebounds, and 3 blocks, significantly impacting the game.
Lakers head coach JJ Redick confirmed earlier that the team aimed to involve Ayton more early on, a strategy that paid off. “Bigs can’t feed themselves,” Ayton stated post-game, emphasizing the importance of teamwork in securing his role. The Lakers called their first play for Ayton, leading to an immediate score with a spinning turn-around hook shot.
Throughout the match, the dynamic duo of Luka Doncic and LeBron James orchestrated the Lakers’ offense, contributing to a staggering 100 points through scoring or assists. In a standout fourth quarter, they exchanged passes 15 times, marking their highest collaboration this season.
Redick praised Ayton’s performance: “He was great throughout the game,” he noted, highlighting the center’s need to feel integrated within the offense. “It’s a tale as old as time for a big guy,” he added, underlining how crucial it is for big men to receive consistent ball distribution.
Ayton had struggled in his previous game, shooting just 2-for-4 against Memphis, marking his lowest attempts of the season. Redick acknowledged that a lack of involvement could diminish a big man’s effort, making Sunday’s adjustments vital for team success.
James maintained focus on Ayton, stating, “I’m always looking for DA,” and emphasized their commitment to integrating him into the game plan. His efforts were evident in the fourth quarter, where Ayton blocked two shots, showcasing his defensive prowess in a playoff-like atmosphere.
As the Lakers look to build on this momentum, fans are eager to see how Ayton continues to evolve in his role. The Lakers will need to maintain this level of collaboration and focus as they prepare for their next challenges in the ongoing NBA season.
Stay tuned for more updates on Ayton and the Lakers as they aim to capitalize on this momentum in the coming games.
