Arenas broke down Ayton’s mindset on “The Gilbert Arenas Show,” pointing to something that’s followed the big man since draft night 2018.
“He was drafted in front of Luka, there is a little ego there, too. You know what I mean? Let’s just be honest. I got picked before you. Everybody wants to feel like they are contributing on their own.”
Ayton was the No. 1 overall pick that year, selected ahead of Dončić, Trae Young, and Shai Gilgeous Alexander. While those players have become franchise cornerstones.
Ayton’s complaint is specific: the Lakers are using him like Clint Capela a center whose primary value comes from catching lobs, setting screens, and running the floor.
Clint Capela didn’t let Ayton’s comments slide. After Ayton put up just 4 rebounds and 2 points in a 110-113 loss to the Phoenix Suns, Capela posted Ayton’s image to his Instagram story with a caption:
The message was clear: with Luka Dončić and LeBron James as your point guards, you have no excuse for struggling.
Ayton’s frustration is understandable. He was the No. 1 pick. He has talent. He wants to be more than a role player.
DeAndre Ayton was drafted before Luka Dončić. That fact will follow him forever.Whether it fuels him or haunts him is entirely up to him.