Ayton stresses defense in Lakers debut; Suns ease Williams back; Jovic counters injury label
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LOS ANGELES — Deandre Ayton opened his Lakers tenure Friday with just one point in 18 minutes, but the center emphasized that rim protection, not scoring, tops his agenda.
Ayton finished the preseason contest with two blocked shots and said the defensive effort reflects what the organization expects after signing him this summer.
“I wanted to show the team I’m more committed on the defensive end than the offense,” Ayton told reporters. “I’m not really here for numbers. I’m here for whatever the Lakers really want me to do. The main objective is protecting that rim and closing out possessions.”
The 25-year-old added that he is comfortable letting Luka Doncic, LeBron James and Austin Reaves determine how he fits offensively.
James, 40, sat out the game while continuing a gradual ramp-up from a glute issue. Head coach JJ Redick said the staff is taking a cautious approach to ensure the veteran star is ready for opening night.
Suns
Phoenix is bringing newly acquired center Mark Williams along slowly after injuries hampered his early career. The Suns obtained Williams from Charlotte for two first-round picks, and he has taken part in most of camp except live 5-on-5 work.
“They traded two first-round picks for me. I’m in a good place, and they have a plan for me to be ready for opening night,” Williams said. The 7-footer averaged 15.3 points and 10.2 rebounds in 44 games last season and will be a restricted free agent next summer.
Heat
Nikola Jovic, limited to 46 appearances in each of his first two seasons, pushed back on perceptions that he is injury-prone after signing a four-year extension with Miami.
“I broke my foot stepping on someone, my nose when someone elbowed me, and my hand when someone hit it,” the 22-year-old forward said. “What was I supposed to do? I can’t tell my bone not to break.” Jovic said his focus is staying healthy and playing as many games as possible in 2024-25.
Source: Hoops Wire
