Redick Cites ‘Frustration’ as Ayton’s Role Shrinks in Lakers’ Offense
LOS ANGELES, Jan. 5, 2026 — While the Los Angeles Lakers secured a 128-121 victory over the Memphis Grizzlies on Friday, the win did little to mask a growing internal concern: the disappearing impact of center Deandre Ayton.
Lakers head coach JJ Redick addressed the issue directly following the game, confirming that the former No. 1 overall pick is struggling with his fluctuating involvement in the offense. The admission comes after Ayton posted a season-low four points and six rebounds in 25 minutes against Memphis, a stark contrast to his dominant start to the season.
From Reclamation Success to recurring Issues
The Lakers signed Ayton to a two-year, $16.2 million deal this past offseason following his buyout from the Portland Trail Blazers, hoping to revitalize the center’s career as a low-risk, high-reward asset. For the first month, the gamble appeared to pay off.
Ayton averaged a robust 16.6 points per game in November, providing the Lakers with a legitimate interior scoring threat to complement the perimeter attack. However, that production has steadily eroded. His scoring average dipped to 12.3 points in December, culminating in Friday’s single-digit outing to open the new year.
When asked about the center’s visible disengagement during the Memphis game, Redick did not mince words.
“I think he’s frustrated,” Redick told reporters, including ESPN’s Dave McMenamin. “He doesn’t feel like he’s getting the ball. … We’ve talked about it as a team. [When] you don’t feel like you are getting the ball, the rest of your focus kinda wanes a little bit.”
The Engagement Dilemma
Redick’s comments highlight a recurring theme in Ayton’s career—a tendency for his defensive intensity and rebounding to suffer when his offensive touches decrease.
November Average: 16.6 PPG
December Average: 12.3 PPG
Jan. 2 vs. Grizzlies: 4 PTS, 6 REB
The drop-off is particularly concerning given the Lakers’ reliance on Ayton to anchor the paint while Anthony Davis operates more freely. Redick noted that the coaching staff is aware of the friction. “There’s some stuff we have to clean up versus the switch for him to be more available,” Redick added. “But I’d say it boils down to that [frustration].”
The Lakers (21-11) face a quick turnaround as they look to reintegrate Ayton into the flow of the offense before this engagement dip becomes a long-term liability.
