This was not in the script of the Deandre Ayton redemption arc. After posting a stark improvement in the first five games, establishing a chemistry with Austin Reaves, making a double-double, and going into the first NBA Cup game strong, the center hit a setback. His first half against the Grizzlies went without a single rebound. He’d disappear in the second half only to return to the bench. Somehow the Lakers improved without him. That’s boiled up sentiments about Ayton online and they want an explanation for that decline and disappearing act.

The Lakers had an almost 10 point lead without the center. JJ Redick didn’t put him back in the game while the medical staff were still working on Ayton at the bench. The Lakers ended up winning 112-117 in their first game to reclaim the midseason

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