Ayton’s perfect game helps L.A. right ship in win

LOS ANGELES — Deandre Ayton delivered an impeccable performance and the Los Angeles Lakers concluded the initial half of the season with a nearly flawless defensive effort, triumphing 110-93 against the Toronto Raptors.

After missing Saturday’s defeat to the Portland Trail Blazers due to soreness in his left knee, Ayton returned on Sunday, contributing 25 points, 13 rebounds, and zero turnovers, going 10-for-10 shooting from the floor.

He became the first player in the team’s history to achieve 25 or more points with 100% shooting and no turnovers in a game since turnovers became official in the 1977-78 season, per ESPN Research.

«That’s pretty cool,» Ayton remarked, recalling a game in December against Philadelphia where he shot 7-for-7. «I absolutely credit my teammates. They spot me in the easiest places, and I got some easy baskets tonight, for sure.»

Moreover, Ayton became the third player in franchise history to make at least 10 shots without a miss while also securing at least 10 rebounds, joining Wilt Chamberlain (March 11, 1969) and Mitch Kupchak (Nov. 21, 1981).

«That’s something I never thought I’d be part of,» Ayton expressed. «I’m certainly honored and grateful, but I love this game, so I hope to have more of those moments.»

Ayton’s performance was crucial for L.A., who entered the game having lost five of their last six contests by an average of 13.2 points. The Lakers restricted the Raptors to 93 points—the lowest total allowed by them all season.

«He was outstanding,» Lakers coach JJ Redick commented on Ayton. «It’s a tremendous boost for our team.»

Luka Doncic (25 points, seven assists) and LeBron James (24 points, seven assists) also had good outings as L.A. improved their record to 25-16.

«It’s not a terrible record,» Doncic stated. «It could certainly be better, but at times we perform like this, as seen against Atlanta [in L.A.’s 141-116 victory Tuesday]. It gives us a greater chance to win. We just need to focus on those two games and replicate that style.»

L.A. will commence the second half of the season with an eight-game road swing, starting Tuesday against the Denver Nuggets.

«We’re getting paid to do this,» Doncic added. «There shouldn’t be any excuses. I realize there’s a lot of traveling ahead, but we are compensated for this, and I love it.»