Los Angeles Lakers Center Deandre Ayton Says He Is ‘110 Percent’ Committed After Role Reset
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Los Angeles Lakers center Deandre Ayton said Monday that a period of self-reflection convinced him to fully embrace the energy, defense and rebounding duties the team expects from him as it pushes toward the 2026 NBA Playoffs.
Speaking with The Athletic’s Dan Woike, Ayton acknowledged that he previously chafed at a limited offensive role but now recognizes “this is exactly what I signed up for.” The 7-footer explained that he shifted his focus from scoring to “closing out possessions” and “running the floor hard” after realizing his teammates were already locked in on their assignments.
“I bought in—completely, like 110 percent,” Ayton said. “We don’t need me worrying about points. We need effort, rebounds, rim protection.”
The former No. 1 overall pick publicly questioned his usage earlier this season, comparing it unfavorably to a Clint Capela-style role. In recent weeks, however, he has become a key contributor during the Lakers’ current win streak, anchoring the interior defense and controlling the glass.
Ayton added that veterans such as LeBron James and Luka Dončić, along with head coach JJ Redick, have stressed a playoff mindset. “I was tired of being the odd man out,” he said. “The team was already there; I had to catch up.”
The 27-year-old also indicated he is prepared for fluctuating minutes depending on matchups. “If I’m on the bench for a stretch, that’s fine,” he noted. “I understand the reason and stay ready.”
Ayton’s recommitment drew recent praise from Redick and James after a victory over Houston, where he outplayed Rockets center Clint Capela in critical late possessions.
Source: Lakers Nation
