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12 hours ago
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The Los Angeles Lakers have listed Deandre Ayton as probable ahead of tonight’s matchup against the Miami Heat.
Ayton previously exited the Lakers’ NBA Cup game against the Memphis Grizzlies last Friday with back spasms. He scored nine points on 4-of-6 shooting in 17 minutes before head coach JJ Redick opted to sit him for the remainder of the night. Although Ayton wasn’t officially ruled out, Los Angeles took a cautious approach during its 117-112 victory.
The former No. 1 overall pick has been a pleasant surprise for the Lakers this season, averaging 14.8 points and 7.8 rebounds on an efficient 62.7% shooting from the field. Having played in all six games so far, Ayton has exceeded expectations, currently ranking 10th in the league in points scored in the paint.
Los Angeles enters tonight seeking its third straight win, facing a tough Miami Heat team that hasn’t played since last Thursday following a 101-107 loss to the San Antonio Spurs. Led by the resurgent duo of Bam Adebayo and Norman Powell, Miami has impressed early, earning key wins over the Memphis Grizzlies and New York Knicks.
As for the Lakers, Austin Reaves continues to shine, averaging a career-high 32.0 points and 9.0 assists through six games. Meanwhile, Luka Doncic has been nothing short of dominant, posting 45.3 points, 11.7 rebounds, and 7.7 assists in his first three appearances.
If Ayton is cleared to play, Los Angeles will field one of its most complete lineups of the young season — a unit that’s only getting stronger by the game.
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