Deandre Ayton has been an impressive defender for the Lakers this season. Ayton has been a force inside, leading the team in blocks, averaging nearly a rejection per game and helping the Lakers win the battle in the paint.

Los Angeles is averaging 53.1 points in the paint while allowing their opponents to score just 48.7 inside. With LeBron James back, Ayton was able to play with him for the first time in a purple and gold uniform.

The result was the Lakers destroying the Jazz, winning 140-126. After the game, Ayton showered LeBron with praise for his ability to keep the Lakers organized on the defensive side of the ball.

“He makes life easy,” Ayton said postgame. “With his passing and his IQ. Hearing his voice out there, me being the last line of defense and him seeing everything and k

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