The Los Angeles Lakers secured their most significant need this offseason. They signed DeAndre Ayton after missing out on several top centers. The decision quickly shifts focus to one of the historic moments of 2022, where new head coach JJ Redick addressed Ayton’s credibility during a debate.
After the Phoenix Suns traded him, Ayton posted some good numbers. He averaged 15.7 points and 10.7 rebounds in 95 games with the Portland Trail Blazers. Though Portland had a crowded frontcourt, they chose to invest in younger talent.
“Ayton is fantastic. In the two-man pick-and-roll with him and CP, they’re the #1 offensive duo. You go back 6 NBA seasons, that was the best duo in the pick-and-roll. DeAndre Ayton. So he is fantastic,” Redick said on First Take. At that time, Ayton was seeking a long-term deal from the Suns after a tough playoff loss against the Dallas Mavericks.
J.J. Redick on Deandre Ayton back in 2022:
— NBA Retweet (@RTNBA) July 3, 2025
"Ayton is fantastic. In the 2 man pick-and-roll with him and CP, they're the #1 offensive duo. You go back 6 NBA seasons, that was the best duo in the pick-and-roll. DeAndre Ayton. So he is fantastic." 👀pic.twitter.com/OqWf6s4Lm4
Now, with a new core, Ayton will be staring fresh. Despite so many controversies regarding his personality and locker room presence, he will go forward with the head coach who once admired him a lot. By working on his consistency and giving peak efforts on the court, he will surely make Redick’s statement true.
Los Angeles Lakers Believe In DeAndre Ayton’s Potential
The Lakers signed DeAndre Ayton but did not let go of Austin Reaves. Ayton brings talent, but his struggles with effort and defense have made his career inconsistent. After Portland bought him out, the Lakers acquired him as a low-risk move.
Click on ‘Follow Us’ and get notified of the most viral NBA stories via Google! Follow Us
With the Lakers’ lineup, Ayton will play with an elite group led by LeBron James. James is an experienced player and will enter his 23rd season in the NBA. His leadership can improve Ayton’s missing parts and help him grow in this franchise, just like Paul did once in the Phoenix Suns.
The Lakers have faith in Ayton, but he needs to work on his weaknesses. Whether he can meet the Lakers’ expectations will be seen next season.
Also Read: Deandre Ayton’s Cap Choice Has NBA Fans Predicting His Next Team Amid Growing Lakers Trade Rumors
