Deandre Ayton performance vs Rudy Gobert showed he can be LA Lakers’ missing piece

Deandre Ayton is LA Lakers’ missing piece vs. Rudy Gobert

This offseason, the Lakers signed Ayton for his defensive prowess as the Purple and Gold lacked a true center on their roster.

However, after his underwhelming performance vs. the Golden State Warriors, the Laker Nation was quick to call out the former No. 1 overall pick.

In fact, Ayton wasn’t that impactful against the Timberwolves in the first half. But DA bounced back in the second half and finished the night with 15 points and 8 rebounds.

Ayton’s true impact was seen on the defensive end of the floor as he held Gobert to just 2 points, 7 rebounds, and 2 assists.

Gobert’s poor performance was the biggest reason behind the T-Wolves’ loss and Ayton deserves the credit for the same.

Rudy Gobert went off for 27 points and 24 rebounds vs. the LA Lakers in 2025 NBA Playoffs

The true impact of Ayton’s defense can be seen when we compare how well the 4x DPOY played the last time he faced the Lakers.

In Game 5 of the first round series between the Lakers and Timberwolves, Gobert went off for 27 points and 24 rebounds.

While Gobert is a good player, it was the first time in his career where fans saw that version of the French star.

But with Ayton on the roster, it’s safe to assume that the Lakers have found a counter for Gobert and if the two sides are to match up again in the playoffs, the Purple and Gold will have better odds to beat the T-Wolves.