An NBA insider has questioned Deandre Ayton’s professionalism following his reported agreement to join the Los Angeles Lakers.
On ESPN LA, Jason Quick highlighted concerns from Ayton’s time with the Portland Trail Blazers, suggesting the center’s attitude and habits could test the Lakers’ veteran locker room.
Quick pointed out that assistant coach Scott Brooks, who worked with Ayton in Portland and now with Los Angeles, likely provided insight to Lakers management before the move.
“Deandre is really going to test the patience of the pros in the Lakers’ locker room,” Quick said, via HoopsHype. “He’s immature. He thinks he’s better than he is. He’s kind of goofy. Some people think that’s fun and carefree, but the veterans in the Blazers’ locker room would often roll their eyes when he came blaring in, singing or saying nonsense.”
According to Quick, Ayton’s behavior extended beyond locker-room antics. The former No. 1 pick reportedly developed a reputation in Portland for being late to practices, missing flights, and skipping rehab appointments. Those habits reportedly frustrated teammates and staff before his buyout from the Trail Blazers on June 29.
Ayton agreed to a two-year deal with the Lakers, though the signing has not yet been officially announced. The 26-year-old averaged 14.4 points and 10.2 rebounds last season in Portland, a decline from his earlier production in Phoenix.
It remains to be seen how the Lakers’ veterans will respond to Ayton’s presence, given his history in Portland. As Quick noted, “that lack of professionalism wears on you—especially when you’re missing or being late to planes, bus rides, and practices.”
