Los Angeles Lakers center Deandre Ayton called Marcus Smart a true leader for how he has lifted the team this season.

The Lakers are going into the second round without Luka Doncic. What comes after that remains unclear. Coach JJ Redick said there is “no update” on Doncic’s status as he continues to recover from a Grade 2 hamstring strain,

The Los Angeles Lakers open their Western Conference semifinal series against the defending champion Oklahoma City Thunder without Luka Dončić, looking to Deandre Ayton to anchor the paint. Ayton’s rebounding and rim protection will be critical against ...

Deandre Ayton #5 reacts after a basket by Nick Smith Jr. #20 of the Los Angeles Lakers against the Portland Trail Blazers at Moda Center on Novembe

Los Angeles Lakers veteran center Deandre Ayton stepped up in a big way during the first-round playoff series against the Houston Rockets and his teammates took notice.

The Los Angeles Lakers have dominated the Houston Rockets in a thrilling first-round playoff series, clinching a 4-2 victory. Following the series, discussions have surged about the Lakers’ “Old Team” narrative.

James and Reaves aren’t the only Lakers player facing uncertain futures, though. The Lakers have several other guys headed for free agency and a couple of others with player options for next season that they could turn down in favor of free agency,

Luka Doncic was back to taking jump shots, with Los Angeles Lakers coach JJ Redick downplaying what the on-court activity ​means for his star's availability in the Western Conference ‌semifinals against the Oklahoma City Thunder.