LOS ANGELES – The Los Angeles Lakers continued their strong start to the season, improving to 11-4 following their 140-126 win against the Utah Jazz on Tuesday night, a game in which LeBron James made his season debut after returning from a nerve injury. While the high-scoring game may not completely indicate it, the Lakers’ defense was a huge part of the win, and it’s something that Deandre Ayton has come to realize is one of the team’s strengths.

“I’m starting to realize this team, what gets us going is our defensive stops. That’s what keeps our momentum push,” Ayton said following the win. “You got dudes like Marcus [Smart], Bron [LeBron] when he comes out there, he’s trying to protect the rim, and Jax [Jaxson Hayes] bringing that energy. . .closing out possessions, that’s what g

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