Lakers’ Ayton Welcomes Redick’s Accountability in Win Over Warriors
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SAN FRANCISCO — With top scorers Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves out injured, the Los Angeles Lakers turned to Deandre Ayton on Thursday night, and the center responded with 21 points on 9-of-11 shooting in a road victory over the Golden State Warriors at Chase Center.
Ayton had struggled in the two previous games, prompting head coach JJ Redick to publicly note the big man’s issues catching the ball. Speaking on Amazon Prime after the win, Ayton said he embraces that criticism.
“I feel like when I’m not doing what I’m supposed to do, it’s contagious,” Ayton said. “I’m hard on myself, especially when JJ is upset. When it comes to effort on multiple plays, I’m one of those guys he’s definitely talking to. I take pride in that, just trying my best to make it part of me and reinvent myself throughout the season.”
The fourth-year center dominated the third quarter, scoring 12 of his 21 points as Los Angeles created separation in a game it needed to win. Redick praised the performance on Spectrum SportsNet.
“He played fantastic,” Redick said. “The third quarter he was just dominant. We were playing through the post, Draymond (Green) was going to over-help, and D.A. had his proper spacing. That touch shot for him at eight to ten feet is a highly efficient shot.”
With the playoffs approaching and several key players sidelined, Redick noted that Ayton’s energy remains crucial to the team’s fortunes. Veteran guard Luke Kennard added that the Lakers must maintain a “next-man-up” mentality until the roster is whole again.
Los Angeles continues its road trip Saturday as it looks to solidify postseason positioning.
Source: Lakers Nation
