Head coach JJ Redick made a bold wardrobe choice before the Los Angeles Lakers’ Nov. 15, 2025 victory over the Milwaukee Bucks, arriving in a custom T-shirt that merged Deandre Ayton’s face with the image of a lion.
“We want him to be the lion,” Redick told reporters, underscoring the mindset the organization hopes its newly signed center will adopt.
Ayton’s Early Impact
The former No. 1 overall pick joined the Lakers last offseason to supply the interior physicality the roster lacked a year ago. Through 13 games, the 7-footer is averaging 16.2 points and 8.4 rebounds while excelling in pick-and-roll actions alongside Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves. His finishing at the rim and defensive presence have anchored Los Angeles on both ends.
Although coaches have noted occasional dips in Ayton’s aggression, Redick’s public show of support highlights the franchise’s commitment to unlocking the 27-year-old’s full potential. Teammates have echoed that encouragement, aiming to keep Ayton engaged and assertive.
Back-to-Back Standouts
Ayton’s productive night against Milwaukee followed an even stronger outing 24 hours earlier, when he led the Lakers past the New Orleans Pelicans to move to 2-0 in Emirates NBA Cup group play. After that game, the center admitted he mistakenly relaxed late, allowing a pair of Pelicans baskets and forgetting point differential carries weight in the tournament format.
With the coaching staff and roster urging a “lion” mentality, the Lakers hope Ayton’s blend of size, strength and athleticism will continue to drive their push in both the regular season and the inaugural in-season competition.
Source: Lakers Nation
