The Washington Wizards traded two second-round draft picks and Jaden Hardy to get Deandre Ayton from the Los Angeles Lakers, but the big man’s role is uncertain. Ayton has started every game he’s played in since the beginning of the 2020-21 season. The former number one overall draft pick has come off the bench just seven times in his first 470 career NBA games, but the Wizards have Anthony Davis and Alex Sarr. Ayton is likely relegated to the bench, and his minutes are uncertain.
AD is a superstar who wants to play the four. The Wizards are clearly granting that wish. Alex Sarr has the versatility to play the four next to Ayton, but the Wizards' young building block has to start over the big man they just acquired. Ayton has let his mood impact his play in the past, and Washington has to worry about that.
DA opted into an $8.1 million player option before the Lakers traded him to the nation’s capital. He has to prove he's deserving of another massive contract this season. Ayton’s uncertain role and desire to shine could make for an awkward situation with the Wizards.
Deandre Ayton faces uncertain role with the Wizards
Davis has a lengthy injury history, but he consistently plays 34-plus minutes per game. The Wizards will have a much larger opportunity for Ayton when AD misses time. The superstar hasn’t extended his contract and is eager to get another massive payday. He has all the motivation necessary to play and prove he is still a superstar.
Sarr is extension-eligible before the start of the 2027-28 season. This is his chance to prove he is a future superstar. Sarr has played just over 27 minutes per game in his first two NBA seasons, but will need more if he’s going to get a massive extension. If Sarr ups to 30, that leaves just 18 minutes at the five behind him.
The Wizards will play AJ Dybantsa and Tre Johnson at the four when they look to go smaller. Ayton has averaged 30 minutes per game for his career, but could be looking at a smaller reserve role in Washington.
The Wizards want to get back into contention. They should be doing whatever gives them the best chance to win, which will mean limiting Ayton to 15-18 minutes on some nights.
Will Ayton remain happy with that? Head coach JJ Redick wasn’t shy about benching Ayton on nights he didn’t have it. The Lakers were contending and had three superstars atop their roster. Things may be different on the Wizards, especially if they are fighting for a spot in the Play-In Tournament.
The Wizards are heavily invested in Davis and Sarr. They gave up two second-round draft picks to get Ayton. That likely leaves DA as third in the big man pecking order. Will he accept a lesser bench role? This is not a great place to be in ahead of what Washington hopes to be a breakout season.
The Washington Wizards have put Deandre Ayton in a precarious position. The big man needs to fit in and play a role. Ayton wants to shine to get another massive contract. The goals may not line up, and friction could ensue. Ayton has to play his role, but he may have other ideas.
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