Ayton's Knee Contusion Stuns Lakers in Win

Deandre Ayton exited Sunday’s 108-106 win over the Jazz with a right knee contusion in the second quarter after a collision with rookie Ace Bailey and did not return. Jaxson Hayes finished the game at center while Maxi Kleber took on a larger role; Ayton had two points, two rebounds and a steal in 13 minutes. Merlin notes this matters because Ayton, 27, is the Lakers’ major offseason acquisition and is averaging 16.5 points and 8.8 rebounds in his first season in Los Angeles. With the club 12-4 but already juggling injuries, a short absence would test depth and rotations — yet a contusion often heals quickly, so caution, not panic, is the wisest path.