Lost in the shuffle of a Luka Doncic injury report and an Austin Reaves' explosion against the Sacramento Kings was the most productive outing for Deandre Ayton with the Los Angeles Lakers. The decisive 127-120 win for the Lakers over the Kings does not happen without their new center.
Reaves led the way for the Lakers with a ridiculous 51 points, 11 rebounds, nine assists, and two steals. Even with that incredible offensive display, someone needed to step up as the second option with Los Angeles missing its two superstars. Ayton filled that role.
The Lakers center posted 22 points, shooting 10-of-17 from the field. Ayton added 15 rebounds, two assists, one steal and one block to aid Reaves' incredible efforts against the Kings. The Lakers escaped Northern California with the win as a result.
Ayton arrived in Los Angeles as a controversial figure. Many immediately called for a quick end to his time with the Lakers after a disappointing Opening Night. While there should still be a real effort to evaluate his long-term future, judging Ayton so quickly into his time with the franchise is not only unfair, but it is bound to yield inconclusive results.
Deandre Ayton temporarily silences critics with his strongest showing yet
Ayton is certainly not the perfect player, by any means. The 27-year-old, likewise, is not the perfect center for this team. However, a rough reputation has prevented him from truly getting a fair shot in the court of public opinion.
It is fair to be skeptical, and approach the situation with caution. However, calling for the axe at every misstep or rough outing is just unreasonable. That feels especially true for a player entering a new environment like Ayton is.
The Lakers big man was asked by reporters after the Kings game as to what got him going. The circumstances that led to his best outing were a touch comical.
Ayton said, "They all have their own little thing to get my head on. ... They be trying to get me ticked off before these games just to get me rolling. And I'm starting to see it as a trend because I don't get a break until we on the court, then it's all serious."
The former first overall pick said the plan from those around him involved trying to get him on edge and fired up. For Ayton, this showed him that his teammates really care. If trolling is what gives the Lakers the best version of their starting center, it is time to double down on the strategy.