Deandre Ayton's honeymoon phase with the Los Angeles Lakers has officially come to a close. Lakers head coach JJ Redick recently benched Ayton in the fourth quarter of their game against the Memphis Grizzlies, electing to go with Jaxson Hayes instead.
That controversial decision likely saved the game for Los Angeles, which went on to win 128-121 after outscoring Memphis by seven in the fourth. Ayton finished the contest with just four points and six rebounds in 25 minutes.
Lakers realizing Deandre Ayton isn't a viable starting center
This development should have Lakers fans concerned that they are back to square one in terms of their search for an answer in the frontcourt.