Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images

Deandre Ayton Injury Update Emerges Before Knicks Game

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Paolo Songco | Last updated Mar 7, 2026 8:31 PM ET

Deandre Ayton was out of the lineup for the Los Angeles Lakers on Friday against the Indiana Pacers. The 7-foot center was sidelined by a knee injury, which he sustained during Thursday’s 120-113 loss to the Denver Nuggets.

Ayton exited the Nuggets game in the first half. He tweaked his ankle in the second quarter and had to be checked by the medical team in the locker room. It did not take long before the Lakers ruled him out for the rest of the contest due to knee soreness.

Ayton has been a key piece for the Lakers this season. The 27-year-old has made 54 appearances for L.A. this year (all starts), averaging 12.6 points on 66.7% shooting and 8.2 rebounds in 27.3 minutes per contest.

Los Angeles Lakers center Deandre Ayton (5)© Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

The Lakers managed to survive the Pacers despite not having Ayton on the floor. LeBron James was also out of action due to multiple minor injuries.

Luka Doncic led the way for the L.A. on Friday. He went off for 44 points, nine rebounds, five assists, three steals, two blocks and seven triples to lead the Lakers to a 128-117 win.

L.A. is back in action on Sunday in a home matchup. They host Jalen Brunson and the New York Knicks at Crypto.com Arena.

The good news for the Lakers is that Ayton has overcome his injury. The team submitted its injury report for the Knicks game, and Ayton was not listed on it. This means that barring any unforeseen setbacks, the former No. 1 overall pick will return after a one-game absence.

It is important to note, however, that James is listed as questionable to play with a left elbow contusion and arthritis in his left foot. Maxi Kleber (back) is also questionable to play, while Bronny James and Andou Thiero are both with the South Bay Lakers in the NBA G League.

The Lakers enter Sunday’s matchup with a 38-25 record. As of writing, they are sixth in the Western Conference, but are just have a game behind the fifth-seeded Denver Nuggets.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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