LOS ANGELES — Deandre Ayton just etched his name into the Los Angeles Lakers record books, delivering a flawless performance that puts him in the company of the most dominant centers in NBA history.
During the Lakers’ 110-93 victory over the Toronto Raptors on Sunday night, Ayton pulled off a rare feat: scoring 25 points on a perfect 10-for-10 shooting while grabbing 13 rebounds. By doing so, he became only the third player in the storied history of the purple and gold to record at least 10 field goals without a miss alongside 10+ rebounds in a single game.
Elite Company Ayton’s historic night places him alongside Laker icons Wilt Chamberlain (1969) and Mitch Kupchak (1981). When lowering the scoring threshold to 20+ points, he joins an even more exclusive four-man club that includes Shaquille O’Neal (2003).
“That’s pretty cool,” Ayton said after the game. “I definitely give it up to my teammates. They find me in the easiest spots ever… I’m definitely honored and appreciative.”
The Luka-LeBron Factor The former No. 1 overall pick, who signed with Los Angeles last summer, feasted on a steady diet of lobs and putbacks. With superstars Luka Doncic and LeBron James drawing the bulk of the defense’s attention, Ayton found himself constantly open near the rim—none of his 10 shots were longer than eight feet.
Doncic, who has often looked for a reliable lob target this season, praised Ayton’s focus. “When he plays like this, focused on both ends, it helps us a lot. We’ve got to look for him more,” Doncic remarked.
A Crucial Boost for Redick’s Squad Lakers coach JJ Redick has been vocal about the need to integrate Ayton more into the offense, especially as the center had struggled with inconsistent touches earlier in January. This 25-point burst was Ayton’s second-highest scoring output in a Lakers uniform, proving his value as a vertical threat and interior defender.
The win moves the Lakers to a 25-16 record as they prepare for a grueling eight-game road trip. If Ayton can maintain this level of efficiency and engagement, the Lakers’ “Big Three” of Doncic, James, and Ayton may have finally found the rhythm they need to contend for the title.