Deandre Ayton Ruled Out vs. Pacers Due to Left Knee Soreness

Deandre Ayton was ruled out for Friday's game against the Pacers due to left knee soreness sustained in Thursday's loss to the Nuggets. Ayton, who played only five minutes against Denver, is considered day-to-day and could return as soon as Sunday against the Knicks. With Ayton sidelined, the Lakers are relying on increased minutes from Jaxson Hayes and Jarred Vanderbilt to manage their frontcourt rotation.