Is Ayton so bad? The US media suggested that the Lakers exchange 3 for 1 Kessler: Sacrifice the king and two protected first-rounders

Ayton did not perform well in the two games with the Lakers. In the first 18 minutes, he scored 1 point, 8 rebounds, 1 assist, 1 steal and 2 blocks in 18 minutes of the first game. In 21 minutes of the second game, he scored 7 points, 7 rebounds and 2 blocks in 3 of 8 shots. He did not reach double figures in the two games. He made a total of 3 of 10 and shot 30%. It is too soft for an insider who is over 7 feet tall!

Lake Media: The expectations for Ayton are to show his defensive ability, ability to open up space, and superb mid-range shooting skills, and more importantly, to produce key points and assists. If he can have a good year, his value will increase. [This is simply a luxury]

On October 11, BR reporter Jack Fisher revealed that the Jazz will decide whether to trade Kessler in the next few months. Currently, the two parties have made no progress in renewing the contract. Kessler is disappointed with the Jazz management.

In fact, it was revealed on September 26 that Kessler's early contract extension negotiations with the Jazz were at a deadlock. The deadline for early renewal of the third-year student's contract is October 21. Kesler may not be able to reach an extension with the team, so the Lakers may restart trade negotiations. Previous news was that the Jazz would ask for Reeves and two first-round picks.

US media RE simulated a plan on the evening of October 11. This plan listed all the details. The Lakers sent Austin Reeves, a top-five protected first-rounder in 2026, a top-10 protected first-rounder in 2028, and exchanged Kessler from the Jazz. Then Kesler directly started in the Lakers, and defensive back Smart entered the starting lineup.

After James recovered, the Lakers' starting lineup was Doncic, Smart, Rui Hachimura, James, and Kessler, with Vincent, Vanderbilt, Laravia, Ayton, Tiero, Kleber, and Hayes on the bench.

This lineup is a defensive lineup in the true sense. Reeves and Ayton have never been top defenders, but Kessler and Smart are different.