Deandre Ayton exits Lakers’ 108-106 win in Utah with right knee contusion
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SALT LAKE CITY — Los Angeles Lakers center Deandre Ayton left Sunday night’s 108-106 victory over the Utah Jazz after sustaining a right knee contusion midway through the second quarter.
The injury occurred in the opening period when Utah rookie Ace Bailey collided with Ayton’s knee. The 7-foot center logged 13 minutes before departing, finishing with two points on 1-for-2 shooting, two rebounds and one steal.
Ayton, the No. 1 overall pick in the 2018 draft, has been a key contributor in his first season with Los Angeles. Entering Sunday, he was averaging 16.5 points on 69.9% shooting and 8.8 rebounds. The 27-year-old signed a two-year, $16.6 million contract during the offseason after agreeing to a buyout with the Portland Trail Blazers.
Los Angeles improved to 12-4 despite extended injury absences this season for LeBron James, Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves. Backup center Jaxson Hayes opened the second half in Ayton’s place.
Source: ESPN
