Deflects

verb

1. To make (something) deviate from its original path.
2. (ball games) To touch the ball, often unwittingly, after a shot or a sharp pass, thereby making it unpredictable for the other players.
3. To deviate from its original path.
4. To avoid addressing (questions, criticism, etc.).

   "The Prime Minister deflected some increasingly pointed questions by claiming he had an appointment."

5. To divert (attention, etc.).