The Los Angeles Lakers just barely survived a first-round scare against the Houston Rockets, clinging to a 3-0 series lead that nearly slipped away. Now, as they advance to the Western Conference semifinals, a much bigger question looms: What exactly is their plan at center?

One year after signing Deandre Ayton to a two-year, $16 million deal, the Lakers are already being urged to move on from the inconsistent 7-footer. According to Bleacher Report's Greg Swartz, the front office should explore trade options this offseason—especially if Ayton picks up his $8.1 million player option for next season.

Ayton arrived in Los Angeles as a low-risk free-agent signing, brought in to fill the hole left by Anthony Davis after the blockbuster Luka Dončić trade. But the experiment hasn't gone as planned. For every night where he dominates the pick-and-roll or locks down the paint, there's another where he looks disengaged and uninspired.

That inconsistency was on full display during the first round. Ayton was an up-and-down presence against the Rockets—sometimes a difference-maker, sometimes a liability. And while the Lakers managed to advance, it's clear they need more reliability from the center spot if they hope to make a deep playoff run.

Now entering the final year of his deal, Ayton is essentially auditioning for his future in Los Angeles. If he can't find consistency soon, the Lakers may decide to cut ties after just one season—and look for a more dependable big man to anchor their frontcourt.