Deandre Ayton hinted at his frustration with the Lakers' offense by saying "bigs can't feed themselves," adding that he's relying on teammates to find him and get him more involved.
Deandre Ayton's role with the Los Angeles Lakers has been a quiet storyline, but recent comments from both the big man and head coach JJ Redick have brought it into sharper focus.
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Ayton's usage has fluctuated noticeably, something that became especially clear during the Lakers' recent back-to-back games against the Memphis Grizzlies.
In the first meeting, Ayton was largely uninvolved offensively, finishing with just four points on 2-of-4 shooting, six rebounds, and 25 minutes of action. Redick opted to close that game with backup center Jaxson Hayes.
Two nights later, the contrast was striking. Ayton played 34 minutes and delivered a far more impactful performance, scoring 15 points on 6-of-8 shooting while pulling down eight rebounds.
The difference wasn't just minutes — it was opportunity. Ayton was more involved in the offense and received more touches.
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After the win, Ayton addressed the growing discussion around his role, subtly acknowledging the "frustration" that Redick had previously referenced.
"Bigs can't feed themselves, and I just try my best to do what I can to bring effort, and I trust my playmakers out there to find me," Ayton said after a 120-114 victory.
Redick, for his part, made it clear the responsibility doesn't fall solely on Ayton.
"He's a highly skilled big," Redick said. "There's not many of those left in the NBA, just in terms of touch and shooting. ... It's on us as coaches and players to make sure he feels involved."
So far this season, Ayton has quietly produced when given the chance. He's averaging 14.3 points on an efficient 70.4 percent shooting, along with 8.4 rebounds in 29.4 minutes per game across 29 appearances.
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