Los Angeles Lakers center Deandre Ayton missed the past two games. In his place, backup big man Jaxson Hayes took over for him in the starting spot. During that stretch, Hayes averaged 12.0 points and 4.0 rebounds on 90.9% shooting, leading to a 1-1 record. Ahead of their Tuesday game against the Phoenix Suns, the Lakers announced that Ayton is back in the lineup.
Ayton gave time to the media on Monday and spoke highly about how Hayes performed as a starter. The Bahamian center gave a strong endorsement of the big man.
“From the beginning of the year, Jaxson, he’s been doing phenomenal,” Ayton said. “I told him every time, ‘To be honest you are the best big man I have played alongside with when it comes to holding your own. Yeah, we have different styles of play, but you are a momentum guy.’
“He brings the momentum to the team and brings that offense with the pick-and-roll is gonna bring fully. His flying in the sky, even the attempts when he falls down sometimes, just letting teams know that you gotta watch your head.”
Hayes has been ready for whatever role coach JJ Redick has for him this season. The center has appeared in 24 games, averaging 6.0 points and 4.2 rebounds.
Deandre Ayton was named the Bob Lanier Community Assist Award November recipient
Deandre Ayton has been recognized as the NBA Cares Bob Lanier Community Assist Award winner for November. Ayton has created several programs that allow food access and cultural equity in Los Angeles. The league and the NBPA Foundation will provide $20,000 to the Ayton Family Foundation after the announcement.
“My family taught me that feeding people is love, and that’s exactly what the Foundation represents,” said the big man. “We honor our roots by giving back, creating access, and building a stronger future for the communities that made us who we are.”
When he was given the award on Monday, Deandre Ayton couldn’t say a word.
“I’m speechless … I tried my best to give back and just contribute … I truly appreciate the community, especially the Lakers, people being on this platform, making it worldwide,” he said.
Since moving to Los Angeles, the former No. 1 choice has made significant contributions to the underserved kids. He started the Ayton Alley Oop Program, which donates tickets to the Lakers and other athletic events. This enables youth to participate in athletic events.
