Deandre Ayton Responds to FRUSTRATION with Lakers Role and JJ Redick REVEALS his PLAN for it!
The Los Angeles Lakers, one of the NBA’s most storied franchises, have always been a magnet for headlines, speculation, and scrutiny. This season, much of that attention has centered on the team’s integration of DeAndre Ayton—a talented, highly skilled center whose journey through the league has been marked by flashes of brilliance and periods of frustration. The latest wave of discussion began with a candid quote from head coach JJ Redick, raising questions about Ayton’s role, his engagement, and the delicate balance between player needs and team dynamics.
What follows is a deep dive into Ayton’s evolving place with the Lakers, the challenges of maximizing his impact, and the importance of communication in sustaining team success.
I. The Quote That Sparked Concern
A. JJ Redick’s Honest Assessment
Recently, Redick addressed Ayton’s frustrations with his role in the Lakers’ offense:
“I think he’s frustrated. He doesn’t feel like he’s getting the ball enough, which for a guy like Ayton—who in other teams and in past stops has not particularly played with great effort if he hasn’t been a central part of the game plan—I think he’s frustrated. He doesn’t feel like he’s getting the ball. There’s some stuff we had to clean up, but I’d say it boils down to that.”
Redick’s comments were notable for their candor, acknowledging not just Ayton’s feelings but the broader impact such frustrations can have on effort and engagement—especially for a player whose production often hinges on being actively involved in the offense.
B. The Response: Accountability and Adjustments
Redick did not shy away from responsibility, emphasizing that the issue was not just on Ayton, but on the entire team:
“It’s on everybody. We tried to run an action for him. That was one of the ATO’s we didn’t run correctly. There are opportunities for him to duck in and he’s not being active. There are opportunities for us to hit him and we’re not hitting him. It comes down to—will he be active and engaged and assertive? The trust level from the passer builds off that. But I think we’ve got to start the game trying to at least get him a couple touches before the seven-minute mark.”
This recognition of shared responsibility set the stage for a renewed approach, one that would seek to engage Ayton more consistently and early in games.
II. The Impact of Touches: Offense, Defense, and Effort
A. The Statistical Dip
Prior to the recent adjustment, Ayton’s involvement had waned. In the five games leading up to their last contest, he averaged just 9.4 points on seven field goal attempts per game—a stark drop from his production before LeBron James returned, when Ayton was getting over 11 attempts per game and scoring at a much higher clip. The effect was visible not just in scoring, but in rebounding (down to 6.2 per game) and shot-blocking (under half a block per game).
B. The Turnaround Performance
In their most recent outing against Memphis, Ayton’s engagement was evident. He scored 15 points on six-of-eight shooting, grabbed eight rebounds, blocked three shots, and even recorded a steal. Importantly, he scored the first basket of the game—a play drawn up for him directly—setting a tone of involvement and energy that carried through the contest.
C. The Two-Way Street
Ayton’s improved performance was not just a result of increased touches, but a feedback loop: his offensive involvement translated to better defense and overall effort. Redick acknowledged this in postgame comments, noting the importance of making Ayton feel like a part of the offense, especially early.
III. The Communication Between Coaches and Players
A. Dialogue and Recognition
After a previous game against Houston, Redick spoke about the importance of communication—not just conveying what coaches want, but listening to what players need. Going into the Memphis game, the plan was clear: get Ayton more touches, especially early. The result was immediate, with Ayton scoring on the first possession and following up with a seal and dunk on Jaren Jackson Jr.
Ayton himself recognized the adjustment:
“Bigs can’t feed themselves. I just try my best to bring effort and I trust my playmakers to find me.”
B. The Coach’s Perspective
Redick further explained the challenge for big men in today’s NBA:
“It’s a tale as old as time for a big guy. Someone has to pass you the ball; you’re not initiating the offense. There were some things we set up for him to get the ball and he did a great job playing out of that, beyond just pick-and-roll.”
Redick also acknowledged the need for continued reminders to keep Ayton involved, given his unique skill set:
“He’s a highly skilled big. There aren’t many of those left in today’s NBA, in terms of touch and shooting from the areas he likes to get the ball. It’s on us as coaches and players to make sure he feels involved.”
IV. The Modern Big Man’s Role and Challenges
A. The Nature of NBA Centers
Ayton’s situation is emblematic of a broader dilemma facing centers in today’s NBA. Unless you are a generational talent like Nikola Jokić, Giannis Antetokounmpo, or Victor Wembanyama, most bigs rely on playmakers to get them the ball. The offense must be structured to include them, or their impact can diminish.
Ayton’s frustration is understandable, but it’s a delicate balance. Too much demand for touches can disrupt team chemistry, while too little can lead to disengagement and reduced effort.
B. The Importance of Context
Ayton’s history in Portland and Phoenix has been marked by similar narratives—questions about effort, ego, and fit. For the Lakers, managing these dynamics is crucial. Redick’s accountability is a positive sign, but the team must ensure that Ayton’s involvement does not become a source of controversy or distraction.
V. Ayton’s Performance: Efficiency and Versatility
A. Shooting and Scoring
Statistically, Ayton has been exceptional when used correctly. This season, he’s averaging 14.3 points, 8.4 rebounds, and one block per game, shooting a team-high 70.4% from the field—a career best. His mid-range shooting is elite, making him one of only three NBA players (alongside Donovan Mitchell and Nikola Jokić) shooting at least 51% from four different ranges inside 19 feet.
Less than 5 feet: 79.9%
5–9 feet: 69.3%
10–14 feet: 51.2%
15–19 feet: 61.1%
B. Defensive Impact
Defensively, Ayton grades well in rim protection and help defense (A-minus and A grades, respectively), though his rim deterrence and post defense remain areas for improvement. Overall, he has provided solid interior defense when not overloaded with responsibilities.
VI. The Lakers’ Path Forward: Balancing Roles and Maximizing Impact
A. Prioritizing Involvement
The Lakers must continue to prioritize Ayton’s involvement, especially early in games. This not only boosts his individual performance but enhances the team’s overall energy and cohesion. The coaching staff and playmakers must remain vigilant, ensuring that Ayton feels valued and engaged.
B. Avoiding Controversy
While Ayton’s need for touches is legitimate, the team must avoid any perception of ego-driven conflict. Given his history, recurring narratives about frustration or lack of effort could undermine his reputation and future opportunities. The Lakers must foster an environment of communication, accountability, and collective purpose.
C. Evaluating Success
To date, Ayton has been a positive contributor—efficient offensively, solid defensively, and increasingly engaged as the season progresses. The challenge will be maintaining this trajectory and preventing the reemergence of negative narratives.
VII. The Broader NBA Context: Evolving Roles and Team Dynamics
A. The Changing Center Position
The NBA continues to evolve, with the role of the center shifting from traditional post play to versatile, multi-skilled contributions. Teams must adapt, finding ways to integrate bigs into modern offenses while leveraging their defensive strengths.
B. Communication as Key
Successful teams are marked by open dialogue between coaches and players. The Lakers’ handling of Ayton’s situation is a case study in the importance of listening, adjusting, and holding everyone accountable.
C. Team Success Over Individual Stats
Ultimately, the Lakers’ goals extend beyond individual statistics. Ayton’s involvement must serve the broader purpose of winning games, building chemistry, and positioning the team for postseason success.
VIII. Conclusion: Ayton’s Role in the Lakers’ Quest
DeAndre Ayton’s journey with the Lakers is far from over. His skill, efficiency, and versatility make him a valuable asset, but his impact depends on consistent involvement, communication, and collective buy-in. The coaching staff, led by JJ Redick, has shown a willingness to adapt and take responsibility, and Ayton has responded with renewed effort and engagement.
As the season unfolds, the Lakers must continue to refine their approach, balancing individual needs with team objectives. Ayton’s story is one of growth, adaptation, and the ongoing pursuit of excellence—a narrative that mirrors the challenges and opportunities facing big men across the NBA.
For Los Angeles, the path forward is clear: prioritize communication, maximize Ayton’s strengths, and keep the focus on winning. If they succeed, Ayton will not only silence past critiques but help lead the Lakers toward their ultimate goal—a return to championship glory.
