Ayton: James would send messages to encourage us after consecutive away games. You have to love him.

In the NBA regular season, the Lakers defeated the Jazz 140-126.

During the Lakers' 10-day road trip across the United States last week, from Atlanta to Charlotte to Oklahoma City, New Orleans and Milwaukee, Deandre Ayton gradually became accustomed to a new post-game ritual. After games, Ayton would pull out his phone in the locker room and find LeBron James already texting in their group chat.

Ayton said: "He is just supporting us and letting us know that he is paying attention to us. He has been cheering us on. Even after losing, he will pass on wisdom and encouragement to us. You have to love teammates like this."

In this campaign, Ayton played 30 minutes, shooting 10 of 13 shots, 0 of 2 free throws, and scored 20 points, 14 rebounds, 1 assist, 1 steal and 1 block.