Deandre Ayton Addresses Lakers’ Decision After Frustration Talks

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Reign Amurao | Last updated Jan 5, 2026 2:52 AM ET

The Los Angeles Lakers made the most of their center, Deandre Ayton, on Sunday's 120-114 win over the Memphis Grizzlies. He had a strong outing and finished with 15 points on 75% shooting. The big man also had eight rebounds and three blocks.

The Lakers utilized his presence inside and had him score the first basket of the game. To get him rolling, the team's playmakers made sure to put him in the right spots. This was a different approach to how the team usually plays.

On Friday's 128-121 win over the Grizzlies, Ayton only scored four points. Although they won, coach JJ Redick believes that DA was "frustrated" with the lack of touches during the game. Redick made sure that the team got him involved early in the game.

"There’s opportunities for us to hit him when he does duck in and we’re not hitting him... I think we’ve got to start the game trying to get him at least a couple touches before the seven minute mark," Redick said.

Los Angeles Lakers center Deandre Ayton (5)Kirby Lee-Imagn Images

Things changed in how the Lakers executed their offense and got Ayton involved early on. After the contest, the starting center talked about the difference in the team's approach and revealed the trust he has in LA's playmakers.

“How did it feel personally?” Ayton asked.

"We're winning the right way."

Deandre Ayton (15 PTS, 8 REB, AST, STL, 3 BLK) talks to the media after the #LakeShow win their second straight game against Memphis, 120-114. pic.twitter.com/5bdowFDESG
— Spectrum SportsNet (@SpectrumSN) January 5, 2026

“We’re winning the right way. Bigs can’t feed themselves. I just try my best do what I can to bring effort and I trust my playmakers out there to find me.”

Over the past five games, Ayton hasn't been involved as much in the Lakers' offense. During that stretch, he averaged 9.4 points and 6.2 rebounds. Fortunately for the former No. 1 pick, things have changed, and LA wants him to have a bigger part in the team's system.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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