Deandre Ayton praised the Los Angeles Lakers’ defensive effort in their 116-114 victory over the Phoenix Suns. He described the game as emotional and said the team played with “a lot of edge” during the late stretches.
Ayton highlighted the impact of the bench, noting Jarred Vanderbilt and Jake LaRavia’s contributions. “It definitely made our job of playing with grit more contagious. Vando came off the bench straight to it,” Ayton said. “Once I saw that, having both of us crash, the numbers say it all—how we outrebounded them and created extra possessions.”
The Suns briefly took the lead late in the fourth quarter, but Ayton emphasized the Lakers’ focus. “We were pretty calm,” he said. “It was really their arena, but we stayed locked in and focused on our execution.”
He discussed the team’s preparation, referencing recent film sessions that emphasized defense. “Seeing the scouting report was embarrassing,” Ayton said. “JJ got us to tighten up, take pride on the defensive end, and sustain it as Laker basketball.”
Ayton also explained his offensive approach, noting his awareness of teammates’ tendencies. “Just making sure I know Bron’s and Luka’s tendencies, rolling hard to the rim, waiting for late passes, sometimes getting it off the rim—it’s about efficiency and staying ready,” he said.
The center praised LeBron James’ late-game poise, particularly on free throws. “The last three shots at the line—another movie I saw today,” Ayton said. “People know the outcome if he makes these shots, and he did it again.”
Ayton noted the physicality of the game and the importance of crashing the boards. “On every post-up, they double, but me and Vando crashing together created tip-backs and extra possessions,” he said.
Reflecting on his experience in Phoenix, Ayton said the atmosphere fuels him. “It always feels good to be here,” he said. “They add fuel to my fire, and it’s blue fire now—the hottest fire.”
With the win, Los Angeles improved to 18-7, aided by a season-high 24 offensive rebounds. The Lakers will visit Utah on Thursday, while Phoenix falls to 14-12 before facing Golden State.
