One of the key discussions for the Los Angeles Lakers this week centers on head coach JJ Redick’s comments about Deandre Ayton’s dissatisfaction with his offensive role. The issue surfaced after two consecutive games against the Memphis Grizzlies, which saw a significant difference in Ayton’s performance and involvement.
In the first matchup, Ayton managed only four points, shooting 2-of-4 from the field and grabbing six rebounds over 25 minutes. Notably, Redick chose to finish that game with Jaxson Hayes instead of Ayton—a first for this season. Two days later, however, Ayton responded by scoring 15 points on 6-of-8 shooting and collecting eight rebounds in 34 minutes.
After Sunday’s improved showing, Ayton addressed his frustration regarding his offensive opportunities. “Bigs can’t feed themselves and I just try my best to do what I can to bring effort and I trust my playmakers out there to find me,” he said following the win.
The Lakers’ success relies on maintaining engagement from players like Ayton, especially given their lack of depth among big men and ongoing defensive challenges. If key contributors such as Ayton become disengaged or feel overlooked, it could harm any chances for a successful turnaround this season.
Team dynamics have also come under scrutiny; when possessions stagnate with ball handlers like Luka Doncic, LeBron James, or Austin Reaves, it tends to slow down the offense and diminish effectiveness. Distributing opportunities more evenly is seen as a path toward better results.
Acquiring Ayton as starting center carried some risk due to previous instances where he allowed frustration over his role to affect his focus during games. Should similar issues arise alongside high-profile teammates like Doncic and James in Los Angeles, observers note it could reflect poorly not only on him but also impact team outcomes.
Head coach JJ Redick has faced several obstacles during his second year at the helm—including injuries affecting rotations and persistent defensive struggles—but one particular area of concern has been execution following timeouts (ATOs). After Friday’s victory against Memphis, Redick commented that the Lakers had run eight out of twelve ATO plays incorrectly despite no changes to their playbook throughout the season so far.