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yesterday

Ayton Faces Broad Backlash Over Capela Remark as Shaq, Barkley Turn Up Heat

The backlash refocuses attention on his willingness to accept a complementary role.

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Feb 20, 2026; Los Angeles, California, USA; Los Angeles Lakers center Deandre Ayton (5) reacts against the LA Clippers in the first half at Crypto.com Arena. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images
Feb 3, 2022; Atlanta, Georgia, USA; Phoenix Suns center Deandre Ayton (22) controls a rebound in front of Atlanta Hawks center Clint Capela (15) during the first half at State Farm Arena. Mandatory Credit: Dale Zanine-Imagn Images

Overview

  • After a postgame loss, Lakers center Deandre Ayton was overheard saying, “I’m not no Clint Capela,” a comment that quickly circulated across NBA media.
  • Rockets big man Clint Capela replied on Instagram, urging Ayton to “lock in” with “2 of the best floor generals,” a reference to LeBron James and Luka Dončić.
  • Shaquille O’Neal said Ayton “doesn’t play hard all the time” and called him a role player, while Charles Barkley mocked his old “DominAyton” nickname and Channing Frye warned the outburst reflects poorly on coach JJ Redick.
  • Draymond Green advised that embracing a Capela-style screen-and-rim-run role alongside Dončić could help Ayton, noting such roles can be valuable even for former top picks.
  • Austin Reaves called Ayton the team’s “X factor,” as reporters cite season averages around 13 points and 8.4 rebounds and note the Lakers’ tight Western Conference position late in the season.