The Los Angeles Lakers signed Deandre Ayton off the buyout market this summer, and the big man quieted the critics in Sunday’s 126-116 preseason win over the Golden State Warriors. There have been questions about the seven-footer’s game and impact on winning for years. Ayton’s effort and willingness to play a lesser role were causing doubts, but the 27-year-old is already quieting that noise.
His defense has been impressive, but Ayton’s offensive game finally showed up in the third preseason contest. He finished with 14 points, eight rebounds, five assists, two steals, and one block in 26 minutes.