The Los Angeles Lakers are set to face the Utah Jazz on Thursday at the Delta Center in Salt Lake City. It will be their third matchup of the season, with the Lakers winning the first two last month. However, the purple and gold franchise announced that Deandre Ayton won’t be playing against the Jazz due to injury.
According to the Lakers’ injury report, Ayton has been ruled out with left elbow soreness. It will only be his third missed game of the season and the first time he’s been dealing with an elbow issue.
Ayton had back spasms on November 2 against the Miami Heat and had a knee contusion on November 25 against the Los Angeles Clippers. The Lakers won both games, so there’s a good chance they could do it again versus the Jazz.
Jaxson Hayes is expected to start at center, while Maxi Kleber could make his return to the lineup after missing the past two games with a strained lumbar muscle. Kleber is listed as probable, so he’s likely getting cleared before tipoff.
In addition to Ayton and Kleber, Gabe Vincent, Austin Reaves and Bronny James are also on the injury report. Vincent is questionable with a sore back, while Reaves and Bronny are listed as out. Reaves is dealing with a strained left calf, and Bronny is currently assigned to the NBA G League.
Ayton Receives Bob Lanier Community Assist Award for November
In just his first season with the Los Angeles Lakers, Deandre Ayton has made an impact on and off the court. Ayton has been phenomenal in his role on offense for the Lakers, while the NBA and NBPA have already acknowledged his community work, as per NBA.com.
The Bahamian center was named as the recipient of the Bob Lanier Community Assist Award for November. His philanthropic efforts in Los Angeles, Jamaica and the Bahamas have been recognized, especially for the youth and their families.
“My family taught me that feeding people is love, and that’s exactly what the Foundation represents. We honor our roots by giving back, creating access and building a stronger future for the communities that made us who we are,” Ayton said in a statement.
Ayton’s family recently prepared food for the entire Lakers staff and players, with his mother doing all the cooking and feeding.
JJ Redick Praises Ayton’s Efforts
Speaking to reporters earlier this week, coach JJ Redick wasn’t surprised that Deandre Ayton won the Bob Lanier Community Assist Award. Redick praised his heart while also pointing out that his Los Angeles Lakers teammates are enjoying how the former No. 1 pick has opened up to them.
“I think he’s clearly got an amazing heart, and I think our guys have gotten to see him open up to the group. It’s been really fun for everyone. And he’s been very consistent. I’m happy that he was recognized by the NBA,” Redick said, via Lakers Nation.
Ayton signed a two-year, $16.2 million contract with the Lakers this past offseason. He’s averaging 15.3 points, 9.0 rebounds and 1.0 blocks per game this season, while shooting 71.0% from the field.
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