Deandre Ayton’s difficulties with the Los Angeles Lakers intensified on Thursday after a disappointing game versus the Phoenix Suns. The Lakers center’s underwhelming showing did not go unnoticed, prompting public criticism from rapper Ice Cube’s son, O’Shea Jackson Jr., who took to X (formerly Twitter) to express his frustration over Ayton’s play against his former team during the close defeat.
O’Shea Jackson Jr. commented directly on Ayton’s performance, writing,
“Game against the team that drafted you after you make THOSE comments and you don’t do anything is craaaaazy.”
Earlier Comments Spark Controversy Ahead of Tough Night
Jackson’s criticism referenced Ayton’s postgame remarks made earlier in the week, where the center voiced displeasure following a loss to the Orlando Magic, seemingly criticizing Houston Rockets center Clint Capela. Ayton stated,
“They’re trying to make me Clint Capela,”
which drew reactions from players and fans alike.
Despite this bold statement, Ayton was largely absent in the game against the Suns, managing just 2 points and 4 rebounds. His on-court impact was further diminished as he recorded a minus-24 plus-minus rating and was pulled from the game by Lakers coach JJ Redick in favor of Jaxson Hayes.
Inconsistency Continues to Hamper Lakers’ Championship Goals
Ayton’s performance against the Suns highlighted a pattern of inconsistency during his tenure with the Lakers. Expected to be a key offseason acquisition, the former Suns center has yet to consistently deliver at the level anticipated by the purple and gold faithful. Although he showed promise earlier in the week with a double-double against the Orlando Magic, he has struggled to maintain that momentum as the Lakers endure a tough stretch in the standings amid their championship aspirations.
Response from Clint Capela Adds to Growing Tension
The Lakers’ narrow 110-109 loss to the Magic on Tuesday saw Ayton contribute 21 points and a double-double, but his comments after the game sparked further controversy. Capela, the Rockets center mentioned by Ayton, responded via Instagram, writing,
“U got 2 of the best floor general in the game my dawg lockin,”
defending his own abilities and indirectly addressing Ayton’s remarks.
Capela’s public response added fuel to the ongoing scrutiny of Ayton’s role and performances with the Lakers, increasing pressure on the center to improve.
Ayton’s Role with Lakers May Face Scrutiny If Struggles Persist
Despite his recent struggles, Ayton remains the starting center according to head coach JJ Redick’s current lineup decisions. However, with the Lakers continuing to slide in the standings and Ayton unable to find consistent form, there is growing speculation that his position in the rotation could be reevaluated in the coming weeks. For now, the Lakers and their fans are left hoping that Ayton can regain his confidence and contribute meaningfully to their playoff push.
Game against the team that drafted you after you make THOSE comments and you don’t do anything is craaaaazy.
— O’Shea Jackson Jr (@OsheaJacksonJr) February 27, 2026
