TITLE: Ayton Highlights Rim Protection in First Lakers Appearance; LeBron on Gradual Return Plan
SLUG: ayton-defense-lebron-return-plan-lakers
CONTENT:
Deandre Ayton used his first preseason outing with the Los Angeles Lakers to showcase defense rather than scoring, registering two blocks and a single point in 18 minutes during Friday night’s exhibition. The 7-foot center, who joined the club this summer after a buyout with Portland, said his priority is to anchor the paint.
“I wanted to show the team I’m more committed on the defensive end,” Ayton said. “I’m not here for numbers. The objective is protecting the rim and closing possessions.”
Ayton missed both field-goal attempts but stressed he is comfortable letting primary playmakers Luka Dončić, LeBron James and Austin Reaves dictate his touches. “Coach JJ Redick is trusting those dudes to be the main ball-handlers,” he noted. “With playmakers like that, it’ll be hard not to touch the ball.”
LeBron’s slower ramp-up
James sat out Friday’s game while dealing with a glute issue. Redick said the organization is taking extra caution with the 40-year-old entering his 23rd season. “A normal return-to-play protocol moves from 1-on-1 to 3-on-3 live,” the coach explained. “He knows his body, and we’ll work with him and trainer Mike Mancias until he’s comfortable as a full participant.” Redick added that James has been on the court and in the weight room daily.
Vanderbilt makes defensive case
Forward Jarred Vanderbilt impressed on the defensive end, reinforcing the praise he has received throughout camp. Limited to 29 and 36 games the past two seasons because of injuries, Vanderbilt could challenge Rui Hachimura for the starting power-forward role if his perimeter shooting improves.
Bronny’s growth despite cold night
Rookie guard Bronny James endured a 1-for-12 shooting performance Friday, but Redick pointed to significant progress over the past year. “Skill-wise and read-wise he’s better, but doing it 5-on-5 is different,” Redick said. “He’s a totally different player than a year ago. His G League stint last season was huge for his comfort at this level.”
Source: Hoops Rumors
