Deandre Ayton, the top pick in the 2018 NBA Draft, seems to be wrestling with his role on the Los Angeles Lakers. After a tough loss to the Orlando Magic, Ayton was overheard expressing frustration, saying, “They’re trying to make me Clint Capela. I’m not no Clint Capela!”
Ayton, in his debut season with the Lakers, is putting up 13.2 points, 8.5 rebounds, and 0.9 blocks per game, shooting an impressive 66.7% from the field. Despite these solid numbers, his journey with the Lakers has been a bit rocky, echoing his previous stints with the Phoenix Suns and Portland Trail Blazers, where consistency was also a challenge.
Lakers guard Marcus Smart weighed in on Ayton’s performance, acknowledging that while Ayton has been decent, there’s room for improvement. “He definitely could be better, we all could,” Smart noted.
“The key is, he’s aware and working on it. We’re all trying to figure this out together.
He knows there’s another level he needs to reach, and we’re here to support him in getting there.”
Currently, the Lakers sit in sixth place in the Western Conference. Ayton’s contract is worth $8.1 million this season, with a player option for the same amount next year. With 25 games left, Ayton’s performance could be crucial to the Lakers’ success.
An insider from the Lakers emphasized the importance of Ayton playing with intensity. “When he’s at his best, he’s a force on both ends-whether it’s setting screens, rolling to the rim, or crashing the boards.
These roles might not always get the spotlight, but they’re essential for our team. He needs to embrace being that ‘dirt worker’ for us.”
As the season progresses, Ayton’s ability to adapt and thrive in his role will be key to the Lakers' playoff push.