Lakers coach JJ Redick made a pointed pregame gesture ahead of Los Angeles’ meeting with the Milwaukee Bucks : he showed up wearing a customized Deandre Ayton T-shirt that blends Ayton’s face with a lion’s. Dan Woike of The Athletic shared Redick’s line: “We want him to be the lion.”

It was the kind of public endorsement that doubles as a challenge. Deandre Ayton has been efficient lately , logging 20 points and 16 rebounds in Friday’s 118-104 win over the New Orleans Pelicans, but questions about his physical availability and assertiveness persist.

The coaching staff wants Ayton to own the paint, set the tone, and impose himself every night. That matters especially in a Lakers group trying to replace the rim presence LeBron James provides when he’s out or limited. The wardro

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