TITLE: Ayton Says He Has Matched Lakers’ Energy After Win Over Bulls
SLUG: ayton-matches-lakers-energy-focus
CONTENT:
The Los Angeles Lakers stretched their winning streak to four games on March 12, 2026, defeating the Chicago Bulls 142-130 at Crypto.com Arena. The victory was the club’s seventh in its last eight contests and lifted Los Angeles to the No. 3 seed in the Western Conference.
While Luka Doncic’s scoring burst and LeBron James’s return from injury drew considerable attention, center Deandre Ayton delivered another strong performance. The 7-footer posted 23 points and 10 rebounds, recording his second consecutive double-double after contributing 14 points and 12 boards two nights earlier against the Minnesota Timberwolves.
Ayton on the Lakers’ Recent Surge
Speaking after the game, Ayton credited the team’s recent turnaround to heightened effort on both ends of the floor.
“We’re playing really hard,” he said. “We’re playing with a sense of urgency and we’re playing together. We’re competing in every aspect—effort, 50-50 chances—and really attacking the ball on both ends.”
The fifth-year veteran added that Los Angeles has “tightened up” areas where opponents had previously out-worked them, particularly loose balls and offensive rebounds. He also acknowledged that his own intensity has improved.
“I felt like I picked up my energy and my focus,” Ayton noted. “I finally caught up with the team.”
LeBron Adjusts His Role
James, back in the lineup after missing time with an injury, took on additional responsibilities in rebounding and playmaking with several role players sidelined. The four-time MVP emphasized his willingness to adapt.
“I can shift my game to whatever this team needs to be successful,” James said.
Los Angeles will try to keep its momentum when it hosts its next opponent later this week.
Source: LakersNation.com
