Lakers' JJ Redick Cites Simple Issue Behind Deandre Ayton's Struggles

Ayton has failed to capitalize on increased playing time with the Lakers due to injuries.

Apr. 8, 2026 at 6:40am

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting a basketball player in fragmented, overlapping planes of movement, struggling to grasp the ball, rendered in the Lakers' purple and gold colors.Ayton's inability to secure the ball has become a frustrating obstacle in his quest to establish a consistent role with the Lakers.Oklahoma City Today

Deandre Ayton, the former No. 1 overall pick, has struggled mightily in recent games for the Los Angeles Lakers, scoring just 3 points on 1-of-4 shooting in their blowout loss to the Oklahoma City Thunder. Lakers head coach JJ Redick pointed to a simple issue as the root of Ayton's troubles - he's been unable to consistently catch the ball.

Why it matters

Ayton was expected to take on a larger role with the Lakers due to injuries, but his inability to secure the ball has limited his impact. The Lakers are hoping Ayton can regain his confidence and become a more reliable contributor as they push for a playoff spot.

The details

Ayton, in his 8th NBA season, has failed to live up to his potential as the top overall pick in 2018. His motor and effort have been inconsistent, and that trend has continued with the Lakers. Redick noted that Ayton has 'had trouble catching the ball' in recent games, leading to turnovers and limited production.

  • On Tuesday, April 8, 2026, Ayton scored just 3 points in the Lakers' 123-87 loss to the Oklahoma City Thunder.

The players

Deandre Ayton

A 27-year-old center who was the first overall pick in the 2018 NBA Draft. He is currently struggling to make an impact as a starting center for the Los Angeles Lakers.

JJ Redick

The head coach of the Los Angeles Lakers, who has pointed to Ayton's inability to consistently catch the ball as the root of his recent struggles.

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What they’re saying

“He's had trouble catching the ball.”

— JJ Redick, Head Coach, Los Angeles Lakers

The takeaway

Deandre Ayton's struggles with the Lakers highlight the challenges he has faced in living up to his potential as a former No. 1 overall pick. The team is hoping he can regain his confidence and become a more reliable contributor, but his inability to consistently catch the ball has limited his impact so far.