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 fifth in the Western Conference while producing a negative net rating.
Many of their shortcomings are easy to point out — athleticism, defense and health — but other issues are rising, and it has to do with starting center Deandre Ayton.
Backup big man Jaxson Hayes finished Friday’s 128-121 win over the Memphis Grizzlies over Ayton simply because he “played better,” according to coach JJ Redick.
Following Saturday’s practice, Redick spoke more in-depth about Ayton’s struggles, pointing out that the former No. 1 draft pick simply isn’t getting the ball enough.
Behind Ayton’s lack of usage
“I think he’s frustrated,” Redick said. “Doesn’t feel like he’s getting the ball. There’s some stuff that we had to clean up… for him to be more available, but I’d say it boils down to that.
“To me it comes down to, is he going to active and engaged. Then, sort of, the trust from the passer builds off that. I think most guys, if you feel you’re not getting the ball, the rest of your focus kinda wanes 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 over his last five games, a far cry from the force he’d been through the first quarter of the season.
The Lakers take finish their two-game series against the Grizzlies at home on Sunday.