The Los Angeles Lakers need Deandre Ayton to serve as a rim protector, rebounder, and lob threat for stars like Luka Doncic and LeBron James. However, the 27-year-old center seems unsatisfied with this role.
After a recent game where the Lakers lost 110-109 to the Orlando Magic, Ayton expressed his frustrations in front of reporters, indicating he may not be ready to fulfill the expectations placed on him.
Lakers try unique methods to motivate Deandre Ayton
According to ESPN’s Dave McMenamin, the Lakers have employed some unusual strategies to inspire Ayton, the top pick in the 2018 draft.
“Rob Pelinka… created a black T-shirt with a gold print showing half a lion’s face and half of Ayton’s face, which he presented to the 27-year-old. Training staff wrap Ayton’s water bottle in tape, labeling it ‘DA’s Crunk Juice — Drink this to unleash the beast’ before games.”
The phrase “DA’s Crunk Juice” seems more fitting for a child than a man in his eighth NBA season, highlighting Ayton’s unique situation.
Ayton’s physical abilities are clear; at seven feet tall and 260 pounds, he reportedly has a 43-inch vertical leap and remarkable agility. He’s averaging 13.2 points and 8.5 rebounds during his first year on a two-year, $16.2 million contract, with a player option for 2026-27.
However, Ayton has displayed signs of immaturity. In 2022, he shared with ESPN that he plays ‘NBA 2K’ for four to five hours daily. During his time with the Portland Trail Blazers, he faced fines for lateness, had tantrums, skipped rehabilitation sessions, and even missed a game due to cold weather.
Lakers need a team player at center
After scoring 21 points and grabbing 13 rebounds in the recent game, Ayton shouted, “They’re trying to make me Clint Capela! I’m not no Clint Capela!”
The Lakers might benefit more from the prime version of Clint Capela, who was an effective rim runner and shot-blocker for the Houston Rockets and Atlanta Hawks and led the NBA in rebounding in 2021. He often played alongside offensive stars and received the ball mainly on dives to the basket.
Ayton is shooting an impressive 66.7 percent this season, but his shooting range is limited to close to the basket, and he averages less than one assist per game. Despite his size, he averages only 0.9 blocks per game.
The “NBA 2K” version of Ayton might seem unstoppable, but modern NBA teams struggle to rely on a restricted big man, particularly when they have options like Doncic, James, and Austin Reaves available.
Given Ayton’s current dissatisfaction, it’s uncertain whether he will opt into his contract for next season. After his trade from the Phoenix Suns and the buyout from the Trail Blazers last summer, it’s unclear if there’s a market for a player who may overestimate his abilities and resist adaptation.
Neither Ayton nor the Lakers appear pleased with this season so far. If Ayton does not adapt to a more team-oriented style, the Lakers may be facing another early playoff exit.