Perfect 10 for Ayton as Lakers defeat Raptors

Deandre Ayton became only the third Los Angeles Lakers player in history to make at least 10 shots without a miss and grab at least 10 rebounds in a game.

The former NBA number one pick achieved that in the  Lakers’ 110-93 victory over the undersized Toronto Raptors, scoring 25 points on 10-for-10 shooting to go with 13 rebounds.  

Wilt Chamberlain in 1969 and Mitch Kupchak in 1981 are the only other Lakers to do the trick.

That’s pretty cool,” Ayton said. “I definitely give it up to my teammates. They find me in the easiest spots ever. ... That’s things that I never thought I would even be a part of.  I'm definitely honored and appreciative, but I love this game, so hopefully I get more of those.”

Ayton became the 34th player in NBA history to make at least 10 shots without a miss while also grabbing at least 10 boards.

Ayton dominated in the paint while Los Angeles claimed only ther second victory in seven games. None of his 10 shots was longer than eight feet. He repeatedly converted lobs in the paint -- a job for which the Lakers desperately need their center to excel when Luka Doncic or LeBron James get the defense's attention.

Doncic, whose lob passes sometimes don't find a capable target, was grateful to see Ayton being engaged and active in the paint.

"When he plays like this, focused on both ends, it helps us a lot, helps us win games,” Doncic said. “He’s a very important guy for us. Very important on both ends of the floor. We’ve got to look for him more, and if he plays like this, we have a better chance to win.”

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