Lakers Reportedly Believe Deandre Ayton Will Respond Well to JJ Redick, Coaching Staff

Deandre Ayton reportedly had a messy tenure that ultimately led to the Portland Trail Blazers buying out his contract, but his new squad could help put some of his past issues behind him.

Per The Athletic's Dan Woike, the Los Angeles Lakers believe Ayton will respond well to JJ Redick and his coaching staff. Woike noted that Lakers assistant Scott Brooks previously worked with Ayton in Portland, and Nate McMillan's experience in the league means he has been around "virtually every personality type the NBA’s ever concocted."

The Lakers signed Ayton to a two-year, $16.6 million deal that comes with a player option after the 2025-26 season. Woike reported that "no one involved wants him to exercise it," and Los Angeles hopes he can outplay his new contract.

Per Jason Quick of The Athletic, a Trail Blazers team source said Ayton made a habit of being late to team flights and practices, skipping rehab appointments and throwing "tantrums" after being benched.

If that kind of behavior continues in Los Angeles, it's hard to imagine Ayton will last very long with the Lakers. The team hopes Ayton can turn a new leaf after signing.

The change in scenery could be exactly what Ayton needs at this point in his career. After being selected first overall in 2018, Ayton has failed to meet the expectations set for him before the start of his career, which, understandably, has been frustrating.

But now he has a new set of expectations. The Lakers don't need him to be a star, but rather a player who can get rebounds, play solid defense and contribute to an overall goal of winning a title.

If he can play his new role well, Ayton could get his career back on track.