This summer, the Los Angeles Lakers sought a center to complement Luka Doncic, someone capable of setting strong screens, aggressively rolling to the basket, drawing defenders’ attention, securing rebounds, and protecting the rim on defense. They signed DeAndre Ayton, the former No. 1 overall pick drafted two spots ahead of Doncic, as the top available free agent. However, questions remained about whether Ayton could fulfill the role the Lakers envisioned.
More than halfway through the season, the uncertainty persists.
Ayton’s Performance Against Orlando Highlights Ongoing Challenges
In a recent game that ended in a disappointing loss to the Orlando Magic, Ayton delivered a noteworthy individual effort with 21 points and 13 rebounds, and he stayed on the court during the game’s critical final moments—a contrast to previous outings. Despite his efforts, he faced difficulties matching up with Orlando’s physical front line, notably Wendell Carter Jr., who posted 20 points and 11 rebounds. The Lakers were outperformed on the boards and in points scored inside the paint, and Ayton finished the game with a minus-two plus-minus rating.
On the deciding possession, Ayton fulfilled his assignment by setting a solid screen on Orlando’s Anthony Black. This created space for Doncic to attempt what could have been a game-winning three-pointer. Instead, Doncic passed to LeBron James, who missed the final step-back three, sealing the Lakers’ defeat at home.
Ayton Reacts to Role Comparisons and Team Expectations
Following the game, Ayton’s comments to reporters raised eyebrows. He said,
“They believe in me when I’m down there and sealing and they see me running hard to the rim and crashing, they reward me.”
—DeAndre Ayton, Lakers Center
As he left the locker room, Ayton voiced a pointed remark loud enough for observers to hear:
“They’re trying to make me Clint Capela,”
a reference to the Houston Rockets center known primarily for his lob-catching and rim-running style, rather than offensive creation. He then added emphatically,
“I’m not no Clint Capela!”
The Clash Between Ayton’s Style and the Lakers’ Needs
Since entering the league, Ayton has aimed to be a focal point of offense, seeking to contribute more than just physical presence. Yet, in today’s NBA, offenses rarely run efficiently through traditional centers unless they are transformative players like Nikola Jokic, Victor Wembanyama, or Joel Embiid at full strength—roles Ayton has not matched. His preferred style clashes with the Lakers’ strategy as they build around Doncic and Austin Reaves, who is expected to be re-signed this summer.
Ayton is unlikely to be the Lakers’ long-term center. Nevertheless, he holds an $8.1 million player option for the next season, which sources expect he will exercise.
Looking Ahead: The Ideal Center Role for the Lakers
What the Lakers require at center is more akin to the peak capabilities of Clint Capela—an athletic, physical presence specializing in screens, rim protection, and dominating rebounds within a floor-spaced offense. The team’s pursuit of such a player reflects their desire to maximize Luka Doncic’s effectiveness while maintaining defensive stability.
