The Los Angeles Lakers opened the 2025-26 NBA season against the Golden State Warriors with a stunning performance from Luka Doncic, who posted an impressive 43 points. On the other hand, Deandre Ayton’s contribution was underwhelming, finishing the game with just 10 points and six rebounds.
Golden State took the victory 119-109, starting the season with energy and dominance. The Lakers, meanwhile, suffered from the absence of one of their biggest stars, LeBron James, who missed his first opening game in 23 NBA seasons due to sciatic nerve issues.
Ayton’s shooting efficiency was decent on Tuesday night, but the center drew attention for an unusual comment he made after the game, one that only he seemed to notice, about how difficult it can be to use him as a target in the pick-and-roll.
Today I realized, I’m probably a confusing big, when I can roll and stand just in the pocket. It’s probably a little difficult for them sometimes. I’m so used to the league having that low man on me, so sometimes I can’t even finish a roll.
Earlier, Austin Reaves had mentioned that his timing with Ayton on passes was still problematic. Later, Ayton admitted he might need to adjust his positioning closer to the free-throw line, saying, “We’ve got to play some more.” The lack of chemistry within the Lakers’ roster was evident, as this was Ayton’s first official game with the team.
Fans, however, did not take kindly to his remarks, quickly reacting online with criticism and frustration. One fan posted a video before the game, sarcastically highlighting Ayton’s pregame attitude with the caption:
Meanwhile this is him pregame.
Others joined in. One frustrated user wrote:
1 rebound in the 2nd half 7 feet tall by the way,
Another went even further, venting his anger:
Fk the pick and roll. This big-for-nothing chump only had 6 damn rebounds. He’s 7’1 for crying out loud. Luka had twice as many. Sorry a big man.
The backlash kept growing as disappointed fans expressed their frustration over both Ayton’s performance and the team’s apparent lack of structure.
Ayton already messin with my Mental….
Another added:
Where’s the coaching on this? Seems the Lakers have as many coaches sitting on the bench as players. Who’s working this scheme? Maybe a new coach is needed and not another player. I have faith in Ayton’s skills but you need a scheme to make them happen.
These reactions underline that the Lakers still have much to work on when it comes to cohesion and on-court synergy. For Ayton, the challenge will be to adapt quickly to his new teammates’ rhythm and prove he can be the impact player Los Angeles expects him to be.
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