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2d ago

Redick Benches Ayton Late for Hayes as Lakers' Execution Draws Public Rebuke

Redick links Deandre Ayton’s waning engagement to a lack of touches.

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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)
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Overview

  • After a 128-121 win over Memphis, JJ Redick said he closed with Jaxson Hayes over starter Deandre Ayton because "He was playing better."
  • Ayton logged 4 points and 6 rebounds on 2-for-4 shooting in 25 minutes, continuing a recent dip after a strong start to the season.
  • Hayes delivered 12 points with two steals and a block in 23 minutes and finished plus-8, earning the fourth-quarter minutes.
  • Redick criticized the team’s offensive organization, saying most after-timeout calls were run incorrectly and adding, "I chalk it up to the holidays."
  • Los Angeles is 21-11 but has won only two of its last six; with Austin Reaves and Rui Hachimura out, rotation choices remain fluid as role players like Jake LaRavia and Marcus Smart fill in.