JJ Redick Backs Deandre Ayton After Benching in Lakers’ Game 3 Loss to Thunder

The coach’s public vote of confidence sharpens scrutiny of his rotation choices heading into the next game.

Overview

Deandre Ayton was pulled in Game 3 after a passive defensive and box-out sequence that led to two Thunder offensive rebounds and an Ajay Mitchell layup, and he did not return as the Lakers fell 131-108.
After the loss, JJ Redick called Ayton “special” and said he believes the center will help the Lakers in Game 4 at Crypto.com Arena.
Separate reporting described practice footage that caught Redick saying “I can’t play him” to an assistant, which has fueled questions about how he will handle minutes at center.
Ayton’s production has dipped from a strong Rockets series (11.8 points, 10.8 rebounds on 60.4% shooting) to a rough start against the Thunder (7.7 points, 9.3 rebounds on 39.3% through three games).
The Thunder lead the series 3-0, and Ayton told fans “We ain’t gonna give up,” as attention turns to whether effort and rotation changes can extend the Lakers’ season.