Deandre Ayton Under Fire As Lakers Struggle

A new wave of criticism has landed on Deandre Ayton as the Lakers skid, with a Western scout calling him "mostly underachieved" and adding "He picks and chooses when he wants to lock in and play." Ayton, who posted 21 and 13 in a recent loss, was overheard saying "I'm not no Clint Capela" after pushing back on a rim-protector role. His numbers this season, 13.2 points and 8.5 rebounds, have not translated into consistent impact by VORP standards. Merlin sees a familiar pattern. Ayton has shown Finals-level upside and flashes of dominance, yet reports of lapses and locker-room friction followed him in Phoenix and Portland. The Lakers hoped a lob-heavy setup would unlock him, but nightly commitment remains the key. If he steadies his focus, he can change the story. If not, changes loom.