When the Los Angeles Lakers took a gamble on Deandre Ayton this past summer, they were banking on seeing a more mature version of the former top draft pick. The expectation was for Ayton to embrace his role and the stage that Los Angeles provides. Unfortunately, that hasn't quite panned out.
The Lakers were in need of a player who understood his role and executed it effectively. Ayton initially spoke confidently about stepping up on the big stage that is Los Angeles. Yet, as we approach the final stretch of the 2025-26 season, Ayton has shown to be the player many anticipated.
In a telling moment, after posting a solid 21 points and 13 rebounds in a narrow 110-109 loss to the Orlando Magic, Ayton made a bold statement. As he headed to the showers, he declared loudly enough for ESPN's Dave McMenamin to hear, "They're trying to make me Clint Capela. I'm not no Clint Capela!"
This comparison to Clint Capela reveals more than Ayton might realize. It's ironic that Ayton chose this game to express his frustrations. Despite his impressive stats, his defensive lapses late in the fourth quarter were crucial to the Lakers' defeat.
Capela, in his prime with the Houston Rockets, was exactly the kind of player the Lakers could use right now. He thrived alongside James Harden, and his skill set would likely complement Luka Doncic's needs for a big man.
Defensively, Capela was a reliable force, protecting the rim and covering for his teammates' mistakes. The Lakers are currently missing that kind of defensive anchor.
Ayton's performance on defense has been underwhelming. His low energy and lack of presence around the rim have been glaring issues, negatively impacting the lineups he's part of. As the season progresses, these problems have only become more pronounced.