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Lakers coach JJ Redick explains Jaxson Hayes-Deandre Ayton decision with only 4 words
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- Lakers coach JJ Redick explains Jaxson Hayes-Deandre Ayton decision with only 4 words
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Lakers coach JJ Redick explains Jaxson Hayes-Deandre Ayton decision with only 4 words appeared first on ClutchPoints . Add ClutchPoints as a Preferred Source by clicking here .
Los Angeles Lakers head coach JJ Redick offered a concise explanation for his late-game lineup decision following Friday night's 128-121 win over the Memphis Grizzlies , choosing Jaxson Hayes over Deandre Ayton to close the contest.
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Redick addressed the move during his postgame press conference, explaining why Hayes remained on the floor down the stretch as the Lakers protected a narrow lead.
"He was playing better," Redick said.
The decision came as Ayton, the former No. 1 overall pick, struggled to find a consistent rhythm against Memphis. Ayton finished with four points, six rebounds and one steal while shooting 2-for-4 from the field in 25 minutes. He posted a minus-1 plus/minus rating as the Grizzlies continued to apply pressure in the second half.
Despite the quiet outing, Ayton has been productive for Los Angeles throughout the season . Through 28 games, he is averaging 14.3 points and 8.5 rebounds per contest while shooting a career-high 70.3% from the field. He is logging 29.3 minutes per game in his first season with the Lakers and has remained a consistent presence in the starting lineup.
Hayes, however, delivered a strong performance off the bench Friday and earned Redick's trust in the closing minutes. He recorded 12 points, two rebounds, two steals and one block while shooting 5-for-6 from the field in 23 minutes. Hayes also finished with a plus-8 rating, providing energy and defensive activity as Los Angeles pulled away late.
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With the win, the Los Angeles Lakers improved to 21-11 on the season. They will host Memphis (15-19) again Sunday night at 9:30 p.m. ET before embarking on a two-game road trip. Los Angeles is scheduled to face the New Orleans Pelicans (8-28) on Tuesday, followed by a matchup with the San Antonio Spurs (25-9) on Wednesday.
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