THESE IS THE BEST NEWS WE COULD HOPE FOR: Los Angeles Lakers National Basketball Association NBA world are overjoyed as head coach JJ Redick Makes his Decision Known on making star center Deandre Ayton the new team…see more

In an announcement that has lit up the basketball world and sent a surge of excitement through Lakers Nation, Los Angeles Lakers head coach JJ Redick has made his decision clear: star center Deandre Ayton will be the new anchor of the team’s interior game going forward.

For weeks, speculation had swirled over how the Lakers planned to address their inside presence, with injuries, lineup changes, and shifting game plans leaving fans wondering who would ultimately hold down the center position in the team’s push for playoff dominance. Redick’s statement finally put those questions to rest — and in a way that has the NBA community buzzing.

The Decision

Speaking to reporters after a closed practice session in El Segundo, Redick praised Ayton’s recent performances, leadership in the paint, and growing chemistry with the Lakers’ core players, including LeBron James and Anthony Davis.

“Deandre has earned this,” Redick said confidently. “The way he’s been working — in the gym, in film study, on the floor — it’s exactly what you want from someone in his role. He’s been locked in, committed to the system, and his presence gives us a defensive and offensive advantage we can build on.”

This declaration officially cements Ayton as the starting center and focal point of the Lakers’ interior schemes on both ends of the court, marking a significant strategic shift for the team.

Why Ayton?

Deandre Ayton, a 7-foot Bahamian talent and former No. 1 overall pick, has long been recognized for his rebounding prowess, soft touch around the rim, and ability to protect the paint. His arrival in Los Angeles earlier this season brought high expectations — and now, those expectations are crystallizing into a leadership role.

In his last 10 games before Redick’s announcement, Ayton averaged 18 points, 12 rebounds, and 2 blocks per game, while shooting an efficient 58% from the field. His ability to run the floor in transition, finish lobs, and space the floor with his midrange jumper has made him a natural fit alongside the Lakers’ dynamic playmakers.

LeBron James and Anthony Davis React

LeBron James, never shy about praising teammates who step up, called Ayton’s promotion “a game-changer.”

“Dre’s been putting in the work,” LeBron said. “We see it in practice every day, and now the world is seeing it in games. Having a big man who can dominate both ends is huge for us. This is just the beginning.”

Anthony Davis, who has often shifted between power forward and center during his Lakers tenure, expressed relief and excitement about having Ayton as the permanent five.

“It allows me to play my natural position more often and focus on different aspects of the game,” Davis explained. “Dre’s presence lets me roam on defense and be more aggressive without worrying about the wear and tear of banging in the post all game.”

The Locker Room Boost

Players across the roster echoed their support for Ayton’s new role. Guard D’Angelo Russell noted that Ayton’s screen-setting and rebounding have created more offensive opportunities for perimeter shooters. Rookie Jalen Hood-Schifino said the move gives the team “a clear identity” in the paint.

Even veterans on the bench spoke about Ayton’s impact, pointing to his improved communication on defense and willingness to do the “dirty work” that championship teams require.

JJ Redick’s Vision

For JJ Redick, who is navigating his first season as an NBA head coach, the decision to center the team’s strategy around Ayton is part of a larger vision for how the Lakers will contend.

“We have a lot of talent on this team,” Redick said. “But talent only gets you so far if you don’t have defined roles and accountability. This is about clarity. Dre knows what’s expected, his teammates know what to expect from him, and that makes us more dangerous.”

Redick has been vocal about wanting the Lakers to be a top defensive team, and Ayton’s rim protection is central to that goal. The move also allows the team to run more pick-and-roll actions that capitalize on Ayton’s mobility and soft hands.

NBA World Reaction

The news didn’t just excite Lakers fans — it caught the attention of analysts, former players, and even rival teams.

ESPN’s Brian Windhorst called the move “the kind of clarity that can change a season,” noting that teams often play their best basketball when roles are defined and players are empowered.

Former NBA big man Kendrick Perkins added on NBA Today:

“This is what the Lakers needed — a true big who can take pressure off AD and give LeBron more room to operate. Ayton’s about to show why he was a No. 1 pick.”

Fan Excitement

Social media lit up following the announcement. One Lakers fan tweeted:

“Ayton at the five, AD at the four, LeBron running the show — this is the lineup we’ve been waiting for.”

Another wrote:

“JJ Redick just made the best call of the season. Let’s go, Lakers!”

Merchandise sales for Ayton’s jersey reportedly spiked within hours, with fans eager to show support for their new starting center.

The Road Ahead

The Lakers’ next few games will test Ayton’s ability to handle his expanded role, with matchups against elite big men like Nikola Jokić, Rudy Gobert, and Bam Adebayo looming on the schedule. If Ayton can hold his own — and continue producing double-doubles — it could solidify Los Angeles as a serious championship threat.

For Redick, the decision isn’t just about the regular season. “We’re thinking about April, May, and June,” he said. “We want to be peaking at the right time, and this is one step toward that.”

Conclusion

In a season where questions about rotations, injuries, and chemistry have swirled around the Lakers, JJ Redick’s decision to elevate Deandre Ayton to the centerpiece role at center is a bold and potentially season-defining move.

Ayton’s combination of size, skill, and work ethic could be exactly what the Lakers need to maximize their championship window with LeBron James still performing at an elite level and Anthony Davis in his prime.

For the Lakers, the message is clear: they’ve found their man in the middle — and the NBA better take notice.