This wasn’t part of Deandre Ayton’s redemption storyline. After showing significant improvement in the first five games, forming chemistry with Austin Reaves, recording a double-double, and entering the first NBA Cup game with strong momentum, Ayton faced a setback. He managed zero rebounds in the first half against the Grizzlies and then disappeared in the second half, returning only to the bench. Somehow, the Lakers managed to improve without him, sparking online discussions and calls for an explanation behind his decline and absence.

Following the game, JJ Redick stated that Ayton was available to return, but he “didn’t want to risk it” after Ayton had missed so much time, as reported by Dave McMenamin. Ayton had played approximately 17 minutes in the first half, scoring 9 points, but his other stats were all zeros, including rebounds, after averaging double digits in the previous games.

The Lakers held an almost 10-point lead without Ayton. JJ Redick opted not to bring him back into the game while the medical staff continued to assess Ayton on the bench. The Lakers ultimately triumphed 117-112 in their first game in hopes of reclaiming the midseason title.

Jake Laravia was subbed in while Ayton remained in the Lakers’ locker room at the FedEx Forum for the entire third quarter, undergoing evaluation. Like Ayton, Laravia is not a fan favorite but is on an underdog streak. He delivered his second improved performance, tallying 13 points, 5 rebounds, and 23 assists in over 20 minutes of play.

The unexpected problems couldn’t overshadow Luka Doncic’s return. He was cleared after sitting out a week with a leg contusion and finger injury before the crucial game. Doncic posted another game-high 44 points with an additional 12 rebounds and 6 assists, continuing his high-scoring streak from the opening week. He’s now the second player in NBA history to start the season with 3 consecutive 40+ games.

However, Lakeshow couldn’t forgive Ayton’s abysmal performance right after a double-double game. They needed an explanation.

Pre-game trouble affected Deandre Ayton’s performance

So far, the only injury report on Deandre Ayton mentions back spasms. When he was on the bench, his back was wrapped and he continued to receive medical attention.

Redick kept him on the sidelines as a precaution, though it was evident that Ayton wasn’t needed in the fourth quarter. The Lakers dominated the Grizzlies in the second half, outscoring them 34-22 in the third quarter and 28-21 in the fourth, proving they could thrive without their starting center.

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Ayton reportedly told the media he had been experiencing tightness in his back since the shootaround prior to the game. He attempted to loosen it up but “tweaked” it during an alley-oop in the first half, which likely contributed to his disappointing stat line.

The injury is apparently not serious, and he will be monitored over the weekend. He could have returned to the game if necessary, but he is now likely to redeem himself in Sunday’s matchup against Miami.

Where Ayton’s presence would be more than required against an All-NBA center such as Bam Adebayo, who is off to a strong start to the season, averaging a near double-double with 23 points and 9 rebounds

His return, though, depends on the medical staff and coaching staff. His inconsistency is a bigger factor in his usage than health. However, it’s worth noting that reduced minutes for Ayton don’t bode well for Jake Laravia either.

With Doncic back, most of the role-players’ minutes took a hit. Austin Reaves and Marcus Smart retained valuable minutes.

While fans aren’t ready to gamble on Ayton, JJ Redick and the team might think differently.