Deandre Ayton is already a problem for Lakers

It took less than one game for Los Angeles Lakers fans to find their new scapegoat. And, to be fair, they might be right this time.

It was an ugly debut for Deandre Ayton, the Lakers' biggest signing of the offseason, and the worst part is that it might not get better. Ayton struggled to get anything going in the paint, scoring 10 points on seven shots with six rebounds and one block in 34 minutes. The eye test, however, spells trouble for HC JJ Redick.

Deandre Ayton will be a year-long issue for Lakers

As talented as he is, Ayton's motor and character have always been a talking point. That was on full display again in the 119-109 loss to the Golden State Warriors on Tuesday.

Steve Kerr's team rolled with a small lineup, yet Ayton failed to make the most of his height advantage on either side of the court. He got manhandled by Draymond Green on the boards and was either unwilling or reluctant to post him or Jonathan Kuminga up.

He's not a rim-running threat or a lob threat, which is why the fit next to Luka Doncic was always a big question. He's heavy-footed in the pick-and-roll, and he was caught slipping multiple times throughout the game. After the game, Ayton admitted that he messed up multiple pick-and-roll plays with Austin Reaves, which ended in costly turnovers.