Ayton did not because of the same ailment that kept him from playing in the second half of Friday’s road win against the Memphis Grizzlies.

The Los Angeles Lakers have supplied an update on starting center Deandre Ayton prior to the club's Miami clash. Per the league's latest injury report, the Lake

The Los Angeles Lakers are riding a three-game winning streak as they head to Portland for a tough rematch. But a key question hangs over the team ahead of tipoff.

The former No. 1 overall pick has been a pleasant surprise for the Lakers this season, averaging 14.8 points and 7.8 rebounds on an efficient 62.7% shooting from the field. Having played in all six games so far, Ayton has exceeded expectations, currently ranking 10th in the league in points scored in the paint.

Ayton (back) is available for Monday's game against Portland, Ryan Ward of LakersNation.com reports.

Spectators flocking to the Moda Center expecting a blockbuster will be sorely disappointed. The Portland Trail Blazers are hosting a very shortstaffed Los Angeles Lakers.

Deandre Ayton is now dealing with a back injury that puts his availability for the next Lakers game in question.