Episode
Deandre Ayton Is Ready to Play Defense, and Is a Product of Good Lakers Culture
- Published
- Apr 24, 2026
- Duration seconds
- 1065
- Processing state
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- https://lockedonpodcasts.com/podcasts/locked-on-lakers/
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Summary
Before the team headed out to Houston for Friday's Game 3, center Deandre Ayton met with the media and talked about his excitement not just at playing defense in this series, but playing incredibly versatile defense, not just against centers but one through five on switches. Ayton does move well in space, and obviously needs to prove his ability to follow through and do this at a high level, but more than anything, it reflects his investment in doing the right things for the Lakers, and trying to meet the moment and what the team needs from him, especially with Luka and Reaves sidelined. It frustrates some fans (and media like) that Ayton seems to need these sorts of affirmations, and that the team has had to do so much legwork to get him into a mindset like this, and then keep him there. It would be great if Ayton arrived with the proverbial Mamba Mentality, but that's not how he's wired. But over the course of the year, with some ups and downs, the Lakers have managed to get real buy in from Ayton, and it's translating to performance at the right moment. In a lot of ways, whether reflecting the team culture instilled by JJ Redick and Co., or individual support from guys like Marcus Smart. So how does that translate into Friday's game? And what else should folks be looking for as the Lakers try to take an even more commanding lead? HOSTS: Andy and Brian Kamenetzky Everydayer Club If you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonpodcasts.com/everydayerclub Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! 5-Hour ENERGY Get candy-flavored chaos with Fruity Rai…