Deandre Ayton's 'thankless work' has Lakers in control heading to Houston

EL SEGUNDO, Calif. — Deandre Ayton quickly made his way in front of the banner, behind the microphones, and enthusiastically wished the media, “Good morning.”Ayton seemed like he was in a great mood Thursday, and why wouldn’t he be? The Los Angeles Lakers had just finished practice before hopping onto a plane to Houston with a 2-0 first-round series lead over the Rockets. And Ayton knows he’s had a major hand in his team winning its first two playoff games.“It’s been fun,” Ayton said with a grin. “I’m not gonna lie.”Advertisement