Houston Rockets center Clint Capela publicly addressed comments from Los Angeles Lakers big man Deandre Ayton, who recently suggested the Lakers were limiting him to a role similar to Capela’s.
Capela responded on his personal Instagram account on Feb. 27, 2026, posting a message that appeared to be directed at Ayton. The post followed Ayton’s remarks that Los Angeles was using him “solely like Clint Capela,” a reference to Capela’s pick-and-roll, rim-running responsibilities.
Ayton, 27, signed a two-year contract with the Lakers during the offseason after the Portland Trail Blazers bought out his deal. Injuries and questions about effort had marked his lone season in Portland, and similar concerns have resurfaced in Los Angeles. Aside from a standout performance in a loss to the Orlando Magic, Ayton has struggled to produce consistently and has voiced dissatisfaction with his usage.
Head coach JJ Redick turned to small-ball lineups late in the Feb. 25 loss to the Phoenix Suns after Ayton logged just two points and four rebounds. The dip in production has coincided with the Lakers’ recent slide in the Western Conference standings.
Capela, 31, is widely known for excelling in screen-and-roll sets, finishing lobs and securing offensive rebounds—precisely the areas the Lakers hoped Ayton would solidify when they signed him. Los Angeles pursued Ayton believing he could anchor the frontcourt next to LeBron James and Anthony Davis, but the center’s role and impact remain unsettled as the regular season enters its stretch run.
Despite the frustration, Ayton said he still believes the Lakers can reverse their fortunes, noting that multiple issues—not just his play—have contributed to the team’s recent struggles.
Source: lakersnation.com
