Los Angeles Lakers center Deandre Ayton was forced to leave Sunday’s 108-106 win over the Utah Jazz with a right knee contusion in the second quarter. He didn’t return.
Ayton collided with Jazz rookie forward Ace Bailey earlier in the first quarter. He was replaced by backup center Jaxson Hayes for the remainder of the contest after leaving the game in the second frame. Maxi Kleber also played a bigger role for the Lakers after the injury.
Ayton had two points, two rebounds and a steal in the 13 minutes he played.
The 27-year-old is averaging 16.5 points and 8.8 points per game in his first season in Los Angeles after being the team’s major offseason acquisition. The team has dealt with injuries to various players early in the season, including LeBron James and Luka Dončić, so Ayton’s solid start has been important for the 12-4 Lakers.