Deandre Ayton Faces Role Concerns, Contract Pressure In Pivotal Season With Lakers
Sources close to the Los Angeles Lakers have painted a complex picture of Deandre Ayton. The first overall pick in the 2018 draft out of Arizona has long been a physically gifted big man whose inconsistent effort has raised internal concerns even as the organization works to keep him engaged during a pivotal contract year.
After Tuesday's loss to Orlando, Ayton made his frustrations with his defined role loudly known.
"They're trying to make me Clint Capela," Ayton said in the locker room, referring to the Houston Rockets' backup center. "I'm not no Clint Capela!"
Multiple team sources told ESPN that when Ayton is fully committed, his impact is broad and decisive.
"When he's at his best, he's playing with great force on both ends of the floor," a team source told ESPN. "Those things for a big are just really thankless when you're a skilled big. But on this team, that's what his role is. He has to be a dirt worker."
Sources close to Ayton confirmed that JJ Redick has remained a private advocate for the center, even while publicly addressing effort lapses in film sessions. A Western Conference scout offered a sharper assessment.
"He picks and chooses when he wants to lock in and play," the scout told ESPN. "Which is not what most dominant centers do."
Team sources told ESPN that Ayton earns more playing time and touches when he brings consistent energy to screening and defensive responsibilities and that the difference is visible when he does not.
The organization has worked to reinforce Ayton's confidence. General manager Rob Pelinka commissioned a personalized T-shirt featuring Ayton's likeness. Training staff label his water bottle with motivational messages before games.
Sources say the Lakers view a recent airport detainment during the All-Star break as a misunderstanding and have moved on without disruption. Ayton returned without missing team activities and practiced well upon his return.
Ayton gave up $10 million of his $35.6 million salary with the Portland Trail Blazers to pursue free agency, making outside assessments of his performance directly consequential to his next contract with the Lakers or elsewhere.
Ayton is represented by Bill Duffy, who also is the agent for Luka Doncic, along with Nima Namakian.
