Deandre Ayton’s Role in LA: Under the Microscope as Trade Deadline Nears
When the Lakers landed Deandre Ayton in free agency, there was real optimism that the former No. 1 overall pick could be a difference-maker in purple and gold. A mobile big with touch around the rim, rebounding chops, and playoff experience - on paper, it made sense. But as we near the trade deadline, it's clear that Ayton’s fit in Los Angeles has been anything but seamless.
Ayton’s numbers don’t tell the whole story - and that’s part of the problem. While he’s had stretches of solid production, the impact just hasn’t been there consistently, especially in high-leverage moments.
The Lakers’ coaching staff has leaned more and more on Jaxson Hayes in crunch time, and that’s not just about matchups. It’s about energy, effort, and fit - three areas where Ayton has left fans and coaches wanting more.
The frustration has bubbled over publicly. Even Kendrick Perkins, never one to hold back, called Ayton’s game “a disturbing watch.”
That’s harsh, but it echoes a growing sentiment: Ayton hasn’t looked like the guy who helped the Suns reach the NBA Finals in 2021. That version of Ayton was active, engaged, and impactful on both ends.
The current version? He’s still searching for that gear in LA.
And then there’s the optics - always a factor in a city like Los Angeles, especially when LeBron James is involved. During a recent game against the Cavaliers, LeBron went down in visible pain.
Cameras caught Ayton on the bench, smiling. Now, we don’t know the context - maybe it was unrelated, maybe it was a moment caught at the wrong time.
But in the court of public opinion, especially with a fanbase as passionate as the Lakers’, that image didn’t sit well. This is LeBron James we’re talking about.
At 41, every bump and bruise raises concern. Seeing a teammate seemingly unfazed - or worse, amused - didn’t help Ayton’s case.
It’s also worth noting that tensions between LeBron and Ayton may have been simmering. A few weeks ago, LeBron gave Ayton a cold stare during a game - a moment that didn’t go unnoticed. Whether there’s real friction there or not, the body language hasn’t exactly screamed chemistry.
With the trade deadline just a week away, the Lakers are exploring ways to upgrade the roster. They’ve reportedly shown interest in New Orleans Pelicans forward Herb Jones, though there’s no clear momentum on that front. Still, Ayton’s diminishing role - particularly his absence in late-game lineups - has fueled speculation that LA could be open to moving him.
And that brings us back to Hayes. While he doesn’t have Ayton’s pedigree, his energy and willingness to do the dirty work have made him a better fit alongside Luka Doncic, who continues to drive the Lakers’ offense with pace and precision.
Hayes doesn’t need touches. He just defends, rebounds, and runs - and right now, that might be exactly what this team needs.
So don’t be surprised if Ayton’s name surfaces in trade rumors as February 5 approaches. The Lakers are in win-now mode, and every roster spot matters. If Ayton can’t find his rhythm soon - or at least show signs of being the player LA thought they were getting - the front office may decide it’s time to pivot.
The clock is ticking.