Deandre Ayton gets some injury hope from JJ Redick
LOS ANGELES – The Los Angeles Lakers entered their NBA Cup match against LA Clippers slightly abbreviated as Deandre Ayton is out with a knee injury. Ayton was injured during the Lakers’ win against the Utah Jazz on Sunday. But the head coach of the Lakers JJ Redick he didn’t seem to think the injury had any long-term implications.
During his pregame media availability, JJ Redick gave an update on DeAndre Ayton’s recent injury that should please Lakers fans.
“He was hit in the knee, the MRI was clear except for swelling, a little bruising,” Redick said. “I don’t think it’s going to be a long-term thing, and hopefully it’s game-by-game and he’ll be back at some point by the end of the week.”
Ayton signed with the Lakers in the offseason after agreeing to a contract buyout with the Portland Trail Blazers. He signed a two-year contract worth about $16 million that includes a player option for the 2026-27 season. He was the Lakers’ starting center and was an integral part of the team’s 12-4 start.
The Clippers game is just the second game Ayton has missed this season, the first coming back on Nov. 2 against the Miami Heat. Ayton then had a back injury that did not require more than one game.
He has appeared in 15 games for the Lakers so far, with just over 29 minutes per game. He averaged 15.5 points and 8.4 rebounds while shooting 69.6 percent from the field and 56.5 percent from the free throw line. After the last game he played on Nov. 18. Ayton noted that the Lakers’ defense is what drives the team.
With Ayton out, the Lakers will turn to Jackson Hayes in the starting lineup. Hayes filled in well last season after Anthony Davis was traded to the Dallas Mavericks. Maxi Kleber will also get his shot in the rotation. Kleber was terrific in the fourth quarter team wins against the Jazz on Sunday on both ends of the floor.
2025-11-26 03:56:00
