Deandre Ayton Embraces Bench Role, Powers Lakers Surge

Deandre Ayton says he has changed his view on coming off the bench after grumbling about his role in February. Averaging a career-low 27.4 minutes, Ayton told The Athletic "I bought in. Completely, like 110 percent." He has embraced a tougher, defensive role and delivered late, grabbing four offensive rebounds to help close a win as the Lakers push for a top-four seed. Merlin sees a veteran reshaping his game into team fuel. LeBron praised his effort and coach JJ Redick’s staff kept tabs before reusing him late. Ayton’s willingness to accept bursts of minutes and crash the glass gives Los Angeles real depth when the playoff hunt tightens.