Marcus Smart reflected on Deandre Ayton’s early exit in the Lakers’ 120‑113 loss to the Denver Nuggets on Thursday, highlighting the center’s effort and mindset. “He’s down. It sucked for him not to be out there,” Smart said, adding that Ayton “understands” the criticism he’s received and “wants to do good and help his team.”
Smart noted that Ayton expressed personal frustration after leaving the court. “He just actually left talking to me, saying how he wished he could have been out there and how he’s sorry,” he said.
The veteran guard stressed the importance of focus despite fatigue. “We can’t worry about being tired. No one’s going to save us. We have to go out there and make our minds up to do it,” Smart said.
He outlined the broader responsibility of giving the team a chance to win. “We’re not saying we’re going to win the game, but we have to give ourselves a chance to win. That’s all you can ask for,” Smart explained.
Regarding the Lakers’ home-court advantage, Smart pointed to the competitive spirit it inspires in opponents. “It doesn’t matter who you play. When they come and play the purple and gold, you better be ready for everyone’s best game,” he said.
Despite the loss, Smart highlighted Ayton’s intent and effort as crucial for future games. “He’s still trying to figure it out, but he definitely was down tonight,” he said.
On the court, Denver’s All-Stars Nikola Jokic and Jamal Murray each scored 28 points, with Jokic recording his 23rd triple-double of the season. LeBron James added 16 points and set a new career milestone with his 15,838th field goal. Luka Doncic led the Lakers with 27 points, but turnovers and an early Nuggets run proved decisive.
The Lakers will return home to face the Indiana Pacers on Saturday, while Denver hosts the New York Knicks on Friday.
