Deandre Ayton FRUSTRATED with Lakers Role & JJ Redick REVEALS WHY! | + Lebron Says Lakers NEED Vando

The Los Angeles Lakers’ 2025–26 season continues to be a story of adaptation, resilience, and strategic refinement. Fresh off a Friday night victory against the Memphis Grizzlies, the Lakers have improved their record to 22–11, solidifying their position in the top tier of the Western Conference. However, beneath the surface of this success lies a complex narrative involving player roles, evolving responsibilities, and the quest to maximize team chemistry.

This feature examines the recent developments surrounding Deandre Ayton’s involvement in the offense, the impact of coaching decisions, and the emergence of Jared Vanderbilt as a key contributor on both ends of the floor. Through analysis, player quotes, and coaching insights, we explore how the Lakers are navigating these challenges and building toward sustained success.

Deandre Ayton: Navigating Frustration and Finding Rhythm

Deandre Ayton’s journey with the Lakers this season has been marked by periods of high involvement and stretches of limited touches. According to head coach JJ Redick, Ayton is experiencing frustration due to a noticeable decrease in offensive opportunities over the past five games. This shift has coincided with a dip in production, as Ayton has averaged just 9.5 points, 6.2 rebounds, and half a block per game during this span, despite maintaining an efficient shooting percentage of 65.7%.

Earlier in the season, Ayton was a central figure in the Lakers’ attack, particularly during the first 14 games before LeBron James returned from injury. At that time, Ayton averaged over 16 points, nearly nine rebounds, and one block per game, serving as the third option behind Luka Dončić and Austin Reaves. His field goal attempts exceeded 11 per game, and he was playing with visible energy and engagement.

The recent reduction in touches has prompted questions about Ayton’s role, effort, and overall impact. While some may interpret his frustration as a red flag, Redick offers a nuanced perspective: “I think he’s frustrated. Doesn’t feel like he’s getting the ball. There’s some stuff we have to clean up for him to be more available, but I’d say it boils down to that.”

Redick emphasizes that the responsibility for Ayton’s involvement is shared among coaches and players. Missed opportunities in play execution, lack of activity from Ayton, and insufficient recognition from passers have all contributed to the situation. “It comes down to whether he’s going to be active and engaged and assertive. The trust level from the passer builds off that,” Redick explains. He advocates for establishing Ayton’s rhythm early in games, suggesting that the team should prioritize getting him touches before the seven-minute mark of the first quarter.

The Psychology of Touches: Effort and Engagement

Ayton’s experience is not unique; many NBA players see a direct correlation between offensive involvement and overall focus. Redick acknowledges this dynamic: “Most guys, if they don’t feel like they’re getting the ball, the rest of their focus wanes a little bit. That’s just human nature for most NBA players.”

While some observers may view this as a potential concern, Redick’s comments reflect an understanding of player psychology rather than criticism. He recognizes that rhythm and engagement are interconnected, and that a lack of touches can impact rebounding, defense, and effort.

Ayton’s commitment to being the team’s defensive anchor and playing off stars like Luka and LeBron has been a talking point since his arrival in Los Angeles. He has stated that he does not seek to be a focal point of the offense, but rather aims to contribute through defense, rebounding, and efficient scoring. The current challenge lies in balancing his desire for involvement with the team’s evolving game plan.

The Two-Way Street: Balancing Accountability and Opportunity

The reduction in Ayton’s touches is a two-way street. While decreased involvement can affect a player’s performance, it is also incumbent upon Ayton to maintain effort and impact regardless of offensive opportunities. Redick has previously benched Ayton in favor of Jackson Hayes during critical moments, reflecting a willingness to make tough decisions based on effort and engagement.

Ayton’s numbers have dipped from over 11 shots per game and 16 points to just seven shots and 9.5 points per game. Such a change would affect any player, but the expectation is that Ayton continues to contribute defensively and on the glass, even when not featured in the offense.

The Lakers’ coaching staff is monitoring the situation closely, aiming to prevent any regression in Ayton’s effort or attitude. The hope is that recent struggles are a temporary blip rather than a return to past patterns that have drawn criticism.

Strategic Adjustments: Maximizing Ayton’s Strengths

The Lakers possess a wealth of offensive talent, with LeBron, Luka, Austin Reaves, and emerging contributors like Jake LaRavia and Rui Hachimura all capable of creating and scoring. Integrating Ayton effectively requires intentional play design and clear communication.

Redick advocates for a more balanced approach, incorporating Ayton into pick-and-roll actions, designed post touches, and opportunities to exploit mismatches. “If you have a talented big like Deandre, you should be able to give him a few touches here and there—not simply post touches, but involving him in the offense,” Redick says.

The challenge is to create a system where Ayton’s skills are utilized without disrupting the flow or hierarchy of the offense. The Lakers’ ability to execute these adjustments will be critical to maintaining team harmony and maximizing production.

Jared Vanderbilt: Defensive Anchor and Emerging Shooter

While Ayton’s role is under scrutiny, Jared Vanderbilt has emerged as a key piece of the Lakers’ rotation. Known for his defensive versatility and ability to guard multiple positions, Vanderbilt’s return to the lineup has provided a boost to the team’s overall performance.

LeBron James recently emphasized Vanderbilt’s importance: “We need his athleticism. We need the way he can guard multiple positions. It’s very key that he’s back in the lineup and we love that, but we also need him to knock down a corner shot occasionally when teams are not going to guard him.”

Vanderbilt’s defensive impact is complemented by a surprising uptick in three-point shooting. Over the past five games, he has been the Lakers’ most efficient shooter from beyond the arc, converting 57.1% of his attempts (8-of-14). While the sample size is small, Vanderbilt’s willingness to take open shots and his growing confidence are encouraging signs.

The Value of Versatility: Vanderbilt’s Expanded Role

Vanderbilt’s ability to stretch the floor has kept him on the court for 23.3 minutes per game over the last five contests. His combination of defense, rebounding, and improved shooting makes him a valuable asset, especially in lineups that rely on switching and perimeter coverage.

The Lakers’ defense has become increasingly reliant on Vanderbilt, LaRavia, and Marcus Smart, forming a trio capable of disrupting opponents and anchoring the team’s identity. Vanderbilt’s growth as a shooter adds a new dimension, forcing defenses to respect his presence and opening driving lanes for stars like LeBron and Luka.

While Vanderbilt is unlikely to maintain elite shooting percentages indefinitely, even a sustained rate of 35–40% would make him a legitimate threat and enhance the Lakers’ spacing. The coaching staff is optimistic that continued development will yield long-term benefits.

Offensive Development: Avoiding Liability Status

Earlier in the season, Vanderbilt struggled offensively, posting metrics that ranked him among the league’s least efficient players. High turnover rates and sub-30% shooting from three limited his impact and made him a target for opposing defenses.

Recent improvements have reversed this trend, with Vanderbilt embracing his role, taking open shots confidently, and reducing turnovers. The key is to avoid reverting to past struggles and maintain a balanced approach that leverages his strengths without exposing weaknesses.

Vanderbilt’s evolution exemplifies the Lakers’ commitment to player development and adaptability. By providing opportunities, building confidence, and supporting growth, the team is maximizing the potential of its roster.

Team Dynamics: Balancing Roles and Building Chemistry

The Lakers’ success this season is rooted in their ability to balance individual roles, foster chemistry, and execute game plans. With a deep rotation and multiple contributors, the challenge is to integrate diverse skill sets and maintain buy-in from all players.

Redick’s leadership has been instrumental, emphasizing accountability, communication, and strategic flexibility. The willingness to make adjustments, reward effort, and address concerns openly has created a culture of trust and resilience.

As the season progresses, the Lakers will continue to refine their rotation, experiment with lineups, and seek optimal combinations. The goal is to build a team capable of contending for a championship while nurturing individual growth and satisfaction.

Looking Ahead: Sustaining Momentum and Addressing Challenges

With a strong record and a top-five position in the Western Conference, the Lakers are well-positioned for a playoff run. The team’s ability to navigate challenges, address player frustrations, and capitalize on emerging strengths will determine their trajectory.

Ayton’s role remains a focal point, with the coaching staff committed to finding solutions and maintaining engagement. Vanderbilt’s resurgence adds a layer of versatility and defensive stability, enhancing the Lakers’ competitive edge.

The continued development of young players, the integration of returning stars, and the refinement of strategic approaches will be critical as Los Angeles pursues its championship aspirations.

Conclusion: The Lakers’ Blueprint for Success

The Los Angeles Lakers are navigating a season defined by adaptation, growth, and collective effort. The evolving roles of Deandre Ayton and Jared Vanderbilt illustrate the complexities of team building in the modern NBA. Through strategic adjustments, open communication, and a commitment to development, the Lakers are building a foundation for sustained success.

As the team continues to evolve, fans and analysts alike will watch closely to see how Los Angeles manages its rotation, fosters chemistry, and pursues excellence. The journey is ongoing, and the Lakers remain one of the league’s most compelling stories—a team that wins through resilience, versatility, and unity.