Particle.news
Download on the App Store
13 ARTICLES
·
23h ago

Redick Benches Ayton Late as Lakers Lean on Hayes in Win Over Grizzlies

Redick later described Ayton as frustrated over limited touches.

Image
MINNEAPOLIS, MINNESOTA - APRIL 25: Head coach JJ Redick of the Los Angeles Lakers looks on against the Minnesota Timberwolves in the first quarter of Game Three of the First Round of the 2025 NBA Playoffs at Target Center on April 25, 2025 in Minneapolis, Minnesota. The Timberwolves defeated the Lakers 116-104 to take a 2-1 series lead. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by David Berding/Getty Images)
Image
Image

Overview

  • Following a 128-121 victory over Memphis, JJ Redick said he closed with Jaxson Hayes over Deandre Ayton because “He was playing better,” as Hayes posted 12 points with active defense while Ayton finished with four points and six rebounds.
  • The win moved Los Angeles to 21-11 and a reported 11-0 in clutch-time decisions this season.
  • Redick said Ayton feels he isn’t getting the ball and linked the center’s engagement to touches, adding the team should get him a couple of early post opportunities before the seven-minute mark.
  • The coach criticized the Lakers’ offensive organization, saying many after-timeout sets were run incorrectly and expressing frustration that he “doesn’t know what else to do.”
  • With starters Austin Reaves and Rui Hachimura sidelined, Hayes earned crunch-time trust as teammates, including Luka Doncic, noted his improved pick-and-roll reads and energy.