Deandre Ayton Reveals LeBron James' Serious Warning for Lakers

The Los Angeles Lakers have a commanding 2-0 lead over the Houston Rockets in their first-round NBA playoffs series. LeBron James has been leading the charge for a Lakers side that is missing both Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves due to injury.

James has been L.A.'s driving force in the first two games of the series. The 22-time All-Star is averaging 23.5 points on 48.6% shooting, 8.0 rebounds, 10.0 assists, 1.5 steals and 1.5 triples in 38.5 minutes per contest.

Deandre Ayton has played a key role for the Lakers in the series as well. The 7-foot center went off with a 19-point, 11-rebound double-double in Game 1. Ayton, however, was relatively quiet in Game 2 with six points, five rebounds and a block.

Ayton spoke to reporters on Thursday ahead of Game 3 in Houston on Friday. When asked about the team's mindset now that they are up 2-0, the 27-year-old shared James' serious warning for the squad.

"LeBron is making it very known not to get comfortable, and [head coach JJ Redick] as well - don't get too complacent," Ayton said. "This is the playoffs, anything can happen, man."

"LeBron is making it very known not to get comfortable, and JJ as well – don't get too complacent. This is the playoffs, anything can happen man." – Deandre Ayton on the Lakers' mentality being up 2-0 as the first round playoff series heads to Houston pic.twitter.com/0KYlTdB5Sk

— Khobi Price (@khobi_price) April 23, 2026

Ayton has a lot of playoff experience under his belt. He was a key cog for the Phoenix Suns, playing 45 playoff games over three straight seasons. However, this is Ayton's first postseason stint with James and the Lakers.

James, on the other hand, has 19 playoff appearances in his 23-year career. He has seen it all in his illustrious career, which is why James is making sure his team does not fall into the trap of complacency.

The Lakers take their 2-0 lead to Houston for Game 3 on Friday. Tipoff from Toyota Center is scheduled for 8:00 p.m. ET.

Related: Rockets Announce Concerning Kevin Durant Injury Update for Game 3

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This story was originally published April 23, 2026 at 3:44 PM.