Deandre Ayton describes honest message JJ Redick gave Lakers over defensive struggles

The Los Angeles Lakers' defensive struggles have been a major talking point this season.

They're struggling to guard the perimeter, and coach JJ Redick has looked frustrated on the sidelines during major stretches. That's why it's not much of a surprise to hear that he gave his players an earful in their latest film session.

In fact, according to Deandre Ayton, Redick had a rather interesting choice of words to describe their defensive performance.

JJ Redick urges the Lakers to step up on defense

"Seeing the scouting report, what teams make of us, was pretty embarrassing," Ayton said following the Lakers' 116-114 win over the Phoenix Suns on Sunday, per Silver Screen and Roll. “We’re a really good offensive team but you start to look at those numbers in depth and see it over a span of games, like 10 games, it’s terrible. Tonight was a great start from those last two practices and that film meeting."

The actual word Redick used, however, was a little blunter.

"JJ really got on us and basically showed us 'Y’all showing y’all are a-- right now and it’s time to tighten up a little bit.' You got to have some pride on the defensive end," Ayton said.

While the Lakers are 18-7 and in third place in the Western Conference, their defensive rating of 117.5 ranks 20th in the league, per Basketball Reference.

They can't hope to outscore and outshoot their opposition every night to win a championship, not even with Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves combining for well over 60 points per game. 

The Lakers will probably be active in trade talks to solve their defensive issues, but it'll take a team effort to appease their disgruntled coach.