JJ Redick addressed the controversial call that led to DeAndre Ayton’s ejection during Game 4's loss against the Rockets. The play proved to be a turning point for the Lakers.

The officials called it “unnecessary and excessive” before ejecting him. Speaking after the game, JJ Redick defended his center and dismissed suggestions that the play carried harmful intent.

“He’s got such a sweet, kind soul, and that wasn’t dirty or intentional,” said Redick, discussing the incident.

He further clarified that the contact appeared accidental, and he noted Ayton did the act to brace himself.

“It looked like his arm just kind of slipped and, you know, obviously hit him in the head,” Redick added.

With an opportunity to close the series, the Lakers entered Game 4 with a 3-1 advantage. However, the turning point in the third quarter was when the officials slapped a flagrant foul 2 on Ayton.

The incident occurred during a defensive sequence against Alperen Sengun, where the big man’s elbow landed on Sengun’s head while battling under the paint.

The ejection did prove costly for the Lakers. At the time of his exit, DeAndre Ayton had contributed 19 points and 10 rebounds in 25 minutes, leading the team’s offensive production.

Notably, the big man’s efforts came in after two quiet outings that produced 8 points in total. 

Following his exit, the Rockets strangled the Lakers’ already-struggling offense, leaving them no room for a comeback.

LeBron James later identified the primary reason for the 115-96 blowout loss.

LeBron James highlights the real reason for the loss

It wasn’t just DeAndre Ayton who was tossed during Game 4's loss. In the fourth quarter, the officials ejected the Lakers’ reserve Adou Thiero after a brief scuffle with Aaron Holiday.

However, LeBron James felt the real reason behind the loss was turnovers. Speaking after the game, he said, “It started with me, obviously. My turnover was unacceptable. Defense wasn’t our problem. It was our offense.” 

And as a bottom line, James added, “If we want to win this series… we have to protect the ball.” The series will shift to Los Angeles.

With a 3-1 lead and home court advantage, the Lakers would look to seal the series for good. 

The next opportunity for them to secure the series comes on Wednesday when the two teams take the court for Game 5.

Will the Lakers bounce back in Game 5? Comment down your prediction!

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Written by

Shahul Hameed

Edited by

Utsav Gupta