Redick Highlights Ayton’s Ball Control Issues After Lakers’ Loss to Thunder
The Los Angeles Lakers fell 123-87 at home to the Oklahoma City Thunder on Tuesday. LeBron James was rested, while Luka Dončić and Austin Reaves remained out injured. The absence of those starters left the Lakers shorthanded against a deep Thunder squad.
Redick’s observations on Ayton
Head coach JJ Redick pointed to Deandre Ayton’s ball security as a clear problem. Redick said Ayton struggled to catch and secure passes during the game. The coach noted the staff ran plays to get him the ball, but the execution failed.
How the game played out for Ayton
Ayton played 23 minutes and scored three points. He shot 1-of-4 from the field. He added three rebounds, one block and one turnover.
Context and roster history
The Lakers signed Ayton to a two-year deal worth $16.21 million. The contract includes a player option for 2026-27. Ayton was the No. 1 overall pick in 2018 and spent five seasons with the Phoenix Suns.
He later played two seasons with the Portland Trail Blazers before joining Los Angeles. The 27-year-old had averaged a double-double across his first seven NBA seasons.
Season trends and concerns
This season Ayton has started all 69 games he appeared in for the Lakers. He sits at career lows in points, rebounds and minutes per game. His numbers this year are 12.2 points, 8.0 rebounds and 27.1 minutes per game.
There have been longstanding questions about his effort and interior presence. Those concerns contributed to the Lakers’ previous first-round exit against the Minnesota Timberwolves.
Implications for the Lakers
With limited center alternatives, Redick continues to rely on Ayton. However, the Lakers’ loss to Thunder exposed those weaknesses. Redick highlights Ayton’s ball control issues as a focal point for corrections.
If Ayton cannot hold up as a primary interior option, the team risks another early playoff exit. The Lakers will need better execution and health to avoid repeating past postseason outcomes.
Report for Filmogaz.com.
