The Los Angeles Lakers are set to play the Indiana Pacers, carrying momentum despite a recent loss to the Detroit Pistons. That defeat ended a nine-game winning streak.
The Lakers’ recent success has been driven by Luka Doncic, alongside consistent scoring from Austin Reaves and Lebron James.
DeAndre Ayton and Rui Hachimura have also contributed to the offense, while Marcus Smart’s defensive presence has been key.
Ayton Out, Smart and Hachimura Also Absent
The Lakers have been dealt some injury issues before Wednesday’s game against the Indiana Pacers. Marcus Smart is out with a right ankle contusion. Hachimura will miss the game due to right calf soreness, marking their second straight absence. Ayton was initially listed as questionable with back soreness.
Los Angeles then announced that Ayton has been ruled out for the contest. This will be a setback for the Lakers. They have relied on a full-team effort during their recent run.
Losing Ayton will impact their rebounding. Hachimura’s scoring and floor spacing will be missed, along with Smart’s defense.
The Lakers may need to lean more heavily on backup options such as Jaxson Hayes and Jake LaRavia.
Ayton’s and Hachimura’s Contributions This Season
Ayton has averaged 12.4 points, 8.3 rebounds and 0.9 assists across 63 games. He is shooting 67.2% from the field and 61.9% from the free-throw line.
Hachimura has averaged 11.1 points, 3.2 rebounds and 0.8 assists. He is shooting 50.5% from the field and 43.8% from 3-point range in 59 games.
Smart has added 9.5 points, 2.8 rebounds, and 2.8 assists, shooting 39.9% from the field and 33.6% from 3-point range across 60 games.
Ayton’s Journey to the Lakers
Ayton is a former Arizona standout and the No. 1 overall pick in the 2018 NBA Draft. He began his career with the Phoenix Suns, where he produced several strong seasons before a stint with the Portland Trail Blazers and, eventually, a move to Los Angeles. He earned All-Rookie honours.
Injuries have slowed him at times, as he has dealt with ankle and leg issues throughout his career.
Ayton has been somewhat inconsistent with the Lakers but has shown improvement as the playoffs approach. He signed a two-year, $16.6 million contract with Los Angeles in July 2025.
His long-term future with the team remains uncertain, as his role and performance down the stretch could play a key part in determining how the Lakers approach next season.