The Los Angeles Lakers have been one of the NBA’s most confusing teams through the first third of the season, posting a 21-11 record and sitting in fifth place in the Western Conference while producing a negative net rating.
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Many of his shortcomings are easy to point out (athleticism, defense and health), but other issues are emerging, and they have to do with starting center Deandre Ayton.
Backup big man Jaxson Hayes finished Friday’s 128-121 victory over the Memphis Grizzlies over Ayton simply because he “played better,” according to coach JJ Redick.
After Saturday’s practice, Redick spoke more in depth about Ayton’s issues, noting that the former No. 1 draft pick simply isn’t getting the ball enough.
Behind Ayton’s lack of use
“I think he’s frustrated,” Redick said. “It doesn’t feel like he’s getting the ball. There are some things we had to clean up… to make him more available, but I’d say it all comes down to that.
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“For me, it comes down to whether he’s going to be active and engaged. Then, in a way, the quarterback’s confidence is built off of that. I think most guys, if they feel like they’re not getting the ball, the rest of their focus goes down a little bit. I think that’s human nature for most NBA players.”
Ayton finished Friday’s win with just four points and six rebounds and has averaged just 9.4 points and 6.2 rebounds in his last five games, a far cry from the strength he had during the first quarter of the season.
The Lakers will finish their two-game series against the Grizzlies at home on Sunday.