Ayton's Lakers Struggle: Smart Defends, History Awaits

0:00This is Corey with NBA News Today, powered by the Daily News Now, subscribe for daily updates on your team. The Andre Aiton joined the Los Angeles Lakers, hoping to be a key piece in their push for an NBA title. The 27-year-old center has faced growing criticism this season for not meeting those high expectations, especially with his limited role in. The offense and questions about his effort. Things came to a head after Thursday's 120-113 loss to the Denver Nuggets when Aiton suffered a leg injury and had to sit out. He's been vocal about his frustrations lately, which has only amplified the outside noise about his commitment on the court. Team A Marcus Smart stepped up to defend Aiton in a post-game interview. Smart explained that Aiton is hurting from the setback, understands the backlash, and is working hard to figure things out, even apologizing to the team for not being able to play. Aiton's rookie year with the Lakers has been a roller coaster. He's shown in big games, like when he put up 28 points and 13 rebounds while shooting

1:04over 85% from the floor, joining. Legends like Karim Abdul-Jabbar and Shaquille O'Neill in team history. The Lakers are 10-0 whenever Aiton scores at least 20 points and grabs 10 rebounds. With about a quarter of the season left, he has time to deliver the steady production the team needs down the stretch. The Daily News Now is made possible with support from our sponsor. It is cooler than cool, a pillow that plays your sound, S-O-L-I, solely pillow.com.