The Los Angeles Lakers emerged victorious in a nail-biting game against the Utah Jazz on Sunday night, managing a 108-106 triumph to boost their record to 12-4. But the win came with a hitch – starting center Deandre Ayton had to leave the court prematurely after a right knee contusion, following a tumble with the Jazz's rookie Ace Bailey. Although the injury isn't deemed severe, Ayton might be benched for the next game.
Lakers head coach JJ Redick didn't shy away from sharing his thoughts:
"I mean, everybody’s got to be ready again," he said, hinting at the team's resilience. "I don’t want to speculate on DA, but we feel confident that we have enough options."
In light of Ayton's potential absence, the Lakers took swift action on Monday. They decided to release center Christian Koloko, making space for college basketball prodigy and G League sensation Drew Timme. A former Gonzaga Bulldogs star, Timme has been shining with the Lakers’ G League team, the South Bay Lakers, and now joins the major league squad on a two-way deal.
Timme's G League stats are nothing short of impressive, averaging 25.5 points, eight rebounds, and four assists this season. His previous stint with the Brooklyn Nets also adds a layer of experience to his promising profile.
Recognized as one of the standout college basketball players of recent times, Drew Timme's college career with the Gonzaga Bulldogs from 2019 to 2023 included phenomenal achievements. With an average of 17.2 points, 6.7 rebounds, and 2.4 assists over 134 games, his senior year saw him reaching greater heights. Averaging 21.2 points, he collected numerous accolades like the three-time consensus All-American honors, two-time WCC Player of the Year, and the prestigious 2023 Karl Malone Award.
With the Lakers' current lineup adjustment, fans are eager to see how this Malibu-style drama plays out on the court.