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Deandre Ayton battles inside during a Lakers game. Ayton’s presence in the paint could be key in the team’s playoff series vs. the Rockets.

Los Angeles Lakers center Deandre Ayton didn’t hold back when asked about returning to the postseason, expressing excitement ahead of Game 1 of their first-round playoff series against the Houston Rockets on Saturday at 8:30 p.m. ET on ABC.

“I am truly excited. I want to do backflips,” Ayton said following Wednesday’s practice. “I’m in the purple and gold, and I just want to really just play hard as hell and contribute to wins.”

The No. 4-seeded Lakers will host the No. 5-seeded Rockets in a matchup expected to be defined by physicality, rebounding and execution — areas where Ayton could play a central role.

Deandre Ayton Embraces Lakers Playoff Stage After Time Away

Ayton hasn’t appeared in the playoffs since his run with the Phoenix Suns, where he helped lead the franchise to the 2021 NBA Finals. After several seasons outside the postseason picture, his return comes with renewed energy — and a different perspective.

He described recent practices as mentally intense, with an emphasis on scouting, discipline and understanding Houston’s tendencies.

Now in Los Angeles, Ayton enters the playoffs not just as a contributor but as a player expected to make an impact on both ends of the floor.

Lakers vs Rockets Matchup Highlights Rebounding, Physical Play

Ayton pointed to one of Houston’s defining traits entering the series — its relentless presence on the glass.

The Rockets led the NBA in offensive rebounding percentage at 47.2%, with the Lakers not far behind at 43.6%, setting up what could be one of the most important battlegrounds in the series. That edge often translates into second-chance opportunities that can quickly swing momentum.

Houston’s advantage is driven by multiple contributors. All-Star center Alperen Şengün and rising forward Amen Thompson each averaged 3.0 offensive rebounds per game, while reserves Clint Capela and Tari Eason added 2.1 apiece.

For the Lakers, that puts added emphasis on Ayton’s role in the paint.

He led the team in offensive rebounding during the regular season at 2.6 per game, giving Los Angeles a consistent presence on the glass — something that could be critical in limiting Houston’s second-chance opportunities while creating extra possessions of their own.

That battle on the glass could ultimately decide who controls the tempo of the series.

Ayton’s Strong Finish vs Jazz Signals Bigger Playoff Role

Ayton enters the postseason coming off an efficient performance in the regular-season finale, posting 22 points on 10-of-14 shooting, along with 10 rebounds, one assist and three blocks in just 26 minutes during a 131-107 win over the Utah Jazz.

He co-led the Lakers in scoring alongside Rui Hachimura, showing the kind of offensive efficiency and interior presence the team may need more consistently in the playoffs.

That production could become even more important given the Lakers’ injury situation.

With Luka Doncic (hamstring) and Austin Reaves (oblique) expected to miss significant time during the series, the Lakers may rely more heavily on Ayton to provide scoring support in addition to his defensive responsibilities.

Ayton Aims to Prove Two-Way Impact in Lakers Playoff Run

Across a career-high 72 starts this season, Ayton averaged 12.5 points and 8.0 rebounds per game, establishing a steady role in the Lakers’ rotation.

The postseason, however, presents a different challenge.

Ayton has emphasized his desire to be recognized as a two-way force, capable of impacting the game through scoring, rebounding and defense.

Against a physical Rockets team, that versatility will be tested immediately.

With the spotlight of playoff basketball back on him — and the energy he’s bringing into it — Ayton appears ready to embrace the moment.