Overview
- Deandre Ayton said he is ready to anchor a two-way role for the Lakers as they open a first-round series against the Rockets.
- The Lakers expect to be without Luka Doncic with a hamstring strain and Austin Reaves with an oblique strain, which pushes Ayton into a larger role.
- This season he posted career lows in points, rebounds and minutes but played 72 games and shot 67.1% from the field, his best mark yet.
- Houston led the NBA in offensive rebounding and leans on All-Star big man Alperen Sengun and reserve Clint Capela, so controlling the paint will likely decide long stretches.
- Some analysts suggest Ayton's playoff showing could influence the Lakers' summer plans, which come against the backdrop of his two-year, $16 million contract with a player option.