'I Think He's Frustrated'; Lakers Coach JJ Reddick Opens Up On DeAndre Ayton's Recent Play

This past offseason, the Los Angeles Lakers had a major hole to fill at the center position, and they did so by landing former No. 1 overall pick DeAndre Ayton. While he struggled to stand out in both Phoenix and Portland, the belief was that with LeBron James, Luka Doncic, and Austin Reaves, he could finally fulfill his potential in the NBA.

Following a solid start to the season, Ayton has struggled as of late, despite averaging a solid 14 points and eight rebounds through 29 appearances. However, he hasn't stood out as much lately, and now head coach JJ Reddick has addressed the situation, revealing that he understands why Ayton has been frustrated.

“I think he’s frustrated. He doesn’t feel like he’s getting the ball.”

While Ayton hasn't performed like a former No. 1 overall pick in previous situations, he's been afforded the opportunity to prove it, but in Los Angeles, there are simply better and more important players around him. That lack of a ball-handling role and responsibility has resulted in major frustration, and now, Reddick has noted that they will work hard to get Ayton some more touches to get him more involved on both ends of the floor.

Ultimately, Ayton can play a solid role with the Lakers if he can accept his new role with the organization, but if Reddick can get him some more touches and get him more involved, he could help this team in their pursuit of an NBA Championship.