Lakers Urged to Trade Deandre Ayton as Inconsistency Clouds Future Despite Strong Magic Performance

Pressure builds on Lakers GM Rob Pelinka to trade Deandre Ayton as the center's inconsistent defense overshadows his 21-point performance against the Magic.

By: AXL Media

Published: Feb 25, 2026, 4:46 AM EST

Source: The information in this article was sourced from Heavy.com

Statistical Success Fails to Mask Defensive Deficiencies

In a performance that encapsulated the Deandre Ayton experience, the Lakers center finished Tuesday’s contest against Orlando with 21 points and 13 rebounds on an efficient 8-of-11 shooting. According to Matt Evans of Heavy Sports, head coach JJ Redick made the notable tactical shift of keeping Ayton on the floor during the final minutes of the game. However, while his individual numbers were high, Ayton’s inability to anchor the defense consistently contributed to the Lakers' failure to secure the win, as evidenced by his minus-two rating in a one-point loss.

Internal Competition Heightens Pressure on Starting Role

The scrutiny surrounding Ayton has intensified due to the simultaneous rise of backup center Jaxson Hayes. While Ayton boasts superior career averages, analysts have pointed out that Hayes often provides a higher floor in terms of energy and rim protection. The chemistry between Hayes and superstar Luka Doncic has become a significant talking point, with reports suggesting the Lakers are increasingly weighing a permanent rotation shift. According to Svyatoslav Rovenchuk, the reliability of the backup unit has made the decision to potentially move Ayton or reduce his role a more obvious choice for the coaching staff.

Persistent Motivation and Motor Concerns

Beyond the box score, the long-standing questions regarding Ayton’s motor continue to plague his tenure in Los Angeles. Industry insiders, including Greg Swartz of Bleacher Report, have categorized the former number one overall pick as one of the league's most overrated players. Critics argue that the same frustrations that led to his departures from Phoenix and Portland have followed him to the Purple and Gold. According to Swartz, a center who lacks elite rim protection and a consistent perimeter shot is a "dying breed," placing Ayton’s long-term NBA viability in jeopardy if his development remains stagnant.