Clint Capela hits back at Deandre Ayton after last miserable game
The Los Angeles Lakers and the Boston Celtics. Bill Russell and Wilt Chamberlain. LeBron James and Stephen Curry. Tree Young and his barber. These are just some of the storied rivalries in the NBA’s rich history.
Now, add to that esteemed list: Deandre Ayton and Clint Capela? Emphasis on the question mark.
Ayton recently reflected on his reduced role with the Lakerssaying, “They’re trying to make me Clint Capell.”
After the Lakers lost to the Phoenix Suns 113-110 on Thursday, Capela found the perfect time to clap back in Aiton.
“You have two of the best floor generals in the game my friend. Lock it up,” the veteran center wrote on his Instagram Story, adding two laughing emojis.
Clint Capela calls out Deandre Ayton on IG 😬
“You have the 2 best floor generals in the game my old Lockinnn 🤣🤣” pic.twitter.com/fn2k1kGvV2
— LakersMuse (@LALMuse) February 27, 2026
It was a smart response from the 31-year-old Capela, who has learned to accept his minimal role in his second stint with the Rockets. Of course, he was referring to Luka Doncic and LeBron James, who are among the most unselfish playmakers in the league.
Ayton finished with two points and four rebounds in 23 minutes against the Suns.
His first stint with the Lakers was up-and-downto say the least. There were times when he was an instant double-double, and there were games where he looked like he just started playing basketball a few months ago.
There have always been concerns about Ayton’s competitiveness and engineand the Lakers experienced them recently.
Ayton is averaging 13.0 points and 8.0 rebounds this season.
The Lakers will have to answer a lot of questions about Ayton. But really, the most interesting thing is: Will he retaliate against Capella?
2026-02-27 05:39:00
