Lakers' Deandre Ayton Goes to Locker Room Deandre Ayton left the game during the second quarter of Thursday's matchup against the Denver Nuggets, according to a report from The California Post. The exact reason for his exit remains unspecified, though it is unclear if an injury was involved. Ayton was not seen on the bench in the final minutes of the first half, and his status for the remainder of the game was not immediately determined. The report notes that Ayton was still active on the court during the latter part of the first half, suggesting the situation may not have been immediately urgent. However, his absence from the game raises questions about his availability for the rest of the contest. The team has not yet provided further details, leaving fans and analysts to speculate about the cause of his exit. Ayton’s status for future games remains uncertain, with the team indicating he could be questionable to return. Additional updates are expected as more information becomes available. The situation highlights the potential impact of unexpected player movements during high-stakes matchups, particularly in a league where team dynamics and player health can shift rapidly. The Lakers’ coaching staff and medical team will likely assess Ayton’s condition in the coming hours, with decisions about his availability for subsequent games depending on the findings. For now, the focus remains on the ongoing game and the team’s ability to adjust to his absence.#lakers #nba #deandre_ayton #denver_nuggets #the_california_post
Lakers Trust Jaxson Hayes to Step Up Against Knicks as Deandre Ayton Sideline The Los Angeles Lakers are placing their faith in Jaxson Hayes to carry the load against the New York Knicks, with starting center Deandre Ayton sidelined due to left knee soreness. Hayes, the team’s backup center, has emerged as a key contributor this season and is expected to see increased playing time if Ayton remains unavailable for Sunday’s matchup. Hayes’ rise to prominence has been steady, particularly after the Lakers traded Anthony Davis to the Mavericks in 2025 for Luka Dončić. Last year, Hayes was the team’s primary big man, and his performance has continued to improve this season. Coach JJ Redick praised Hayes’ growth, noting his ability to make touch shots around the rim, execute pocket decisions, and inject energy into the team with his physical play. “He’s a better basketball player now,” Redick said. “He’s making great decisions and consistently contributes to the game.” Ayton, the 2018 No. 1 draft pick, has been the team’s starting center for all 54 games this season but has been limited to just 4.5 minutes in Thursday’s loss to the Nuggets and sat out Friday’s game against the Pacers. His status for Sunday’s contest remains uncertain, but the Lakers are preparing for the possibility of Hayes stepping into a larger role. Hayes has already shown his ability to handle increased responsibilities. In eight games as a starter, he averaged 11.4 points (81.6% shooting), 4.5 rebounds, and 2.0 assists, with the Lakers posting a 6-2 record in those contests. His performance against the Nuggets, where he scored 19 points on 8-of-10 shooting, and the Pacers, with nine points and four rebounds, highlights his readiness for bigger challenges.#los_angeles_lakers #jaxson_hayes #deandre_ayton #new_york_knicks #jj_redick
