Lakers Coach JJ Redick Stands by Deandre Ayton Ahead of Elimination Game
lakers-coach-jj-redick-backs-deandre-ayton-before-game-4
With the Los Angeles Lakers one loss away from ending their postseason, head coach JJ Redick is publicly reaffirming his confidence in starting center Deandre Ayton.
Speaking after practice on Sunday, Redick emphasized Ayton’s value to the club as it prepares for Game 4 of the Western Conference semifinals against the Oklahoma City Thunder on Monday night at Crypto.com Arena.
“I know how special he is for our group to succeed,” Redick said. “In the Houston series he was a big part of the reason we won. I believe in him and he’s going to help us win tomorrow.”
Sharp Drop in Production
Ayton averaged a double-double and delivered sturdy defense against All-Star Alperen Şengün in the first-round victory over the Houston Rockets. Through three games versus Oklahoma City, however, his numbers have fallen to 7.7 points and 9.3 rebounds on 39.3 percent shooting. Rookie Chet Holmgren and backup Isaiah Hartenstein have consistently limited Ayton’s impact in the paint.
Season-Long Evolution
The 27-year-old center endured uneven stretches during the regular season but gained momentum late by focusing on rebounding and rim protection. Redick credited that shift for helping Los Angeles advance past Houston, and he expressed hope that the same approach can extend the current series.
Locker-Room Mind-Set
Guard Austin Reaves said the team understands the stakes of Monday’s “win-or-go-home” matchup. No NBA club has ever overcome a 3-0 deficit, yet the Lakers insist they will compete to force a Game 5 in Oklahoma City.
Tipoff for Game 4 is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. PT.
Source: Lakers Nation
