The Los Angeles Lakers are locked in to win their 18th NBA championship. And with LeBron James and Luka Dončić leading the way, the team’s goal is well within reach. Of course, despite an impressive roster, the Lakers haven’t been deemed perfect.
Many have faulted the team’s defense, wondering how it will play out as the 2025-26 season unfolds. However, as far as Lakers head coach JJ Redick is concerned, the team — and center Deandre Ayton — are on the right track.
Lakers Star Deandre Ayton Reacts to HC JJ Redick’s Praise After Recent Win vs. the Philadelphia 76ers
Following a blowout 126-105 loss against the Boston Celtics, the Lakers made a good comeback against the Philadelphia 76ers. The team won 112-108, inching one step closer to winning their 18th franchise title.
And while Dončić and James scored 31 and 29 points, respectively, Ayton showed up with 14 points and a +10 point differential.
Despite a somewhat lukewarm start to the season, the Lakers and Ayton seem to have settled in — easily impacting the floor as a defensive unit. Fans raised questions about the team’s defensive ability, wondering if the starting five, complete with James and Rui Hachimura, was a good fit against stronger teams.
However, as far as Redick is concerned, Ayton is making his presence known defensively. Ayton — in his postgame interview — admitted to not understanding why Redick complimented him.
“I’mma be real: I don’t know what (JJ) talking about. I don’t know. I just do what I have to do. I thank him but I ain’t know what I did out there,” Ayton said.
Fans joked about the situation, confident that Ayton would be reprimanded after this comment.
| Player | MIN | PTS | FG | 3PT | REB | AST | STL | BLK | OREB | DREB |
| Deandre Ayton | 31 | 14 | 7-7 | 0-0 | 12 | 2 | 1 | 1 | 2 | 10 |
Previously with the Phoenix Suns and the Portland Trail Blazers, Ayton was onboarded before the 2025-26 season kicked off. He is currently averaging 15.3 points, 8.8 rebounds, and 0.9 assists while shooting 70.6% from the field.
Ayton helped the Lakers defend 76ers icon Joel Embiid, further solidifying their win.
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Following a rough start, James bounced back with 29 points against the 76ers. Fans hyped the 40-year-old veteran, who has been playing while dealing with recurring issues like sciatica and arthritis.
Ayton, who had his own game to celebrate, chose to praise his teammate instead. “It was like a movie,” Ayton said. “Ever watch a movie? Felt like a movie. I was in the movie.”
The Lakers will face the San Antonio Spurs next on Wednesday, December 10, for the NBA Cup quarterfinal game.
