Lakers’ Deandre Ayton Puts NBA World on Notice With Bold Defensive Claim

Deandre Ayton (Image Credits: Imagn)

Lakers’ Deandre Ayton Puts NBA World on Notice With Bold Defensive Claim

Originally posted on Total Pro Sports | By Kenny Nosay | Last updated Apr 24, 2026 2:59 AM ET

Deandre Ayton is making the most of his chances in LA’s first-round series against the Houston Rockets, and according to him, he’s now capable of guarding anybody on the floor.

Who would have thought that the Los Angeles Lakers, sans Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves, would fly to Houston up 2-0? In a series that nearly everybody has written them off, the Lakers have thrived. Much of their success is due to the stellar play of LeBron James, Luke Kennard, and Marcus Smart. Not to be outdone, Deandre Ayton shared that he’s been working on his game, especially on the defensive end.

“I’m about to show the world I can guard 1 through 5. … I thought it was going to be a secret weapon, but I’ve been practicing it and having multiple reps guarding the best players in the league on isolations. And the confidence is way up there,” Ayton said in an interview.

“I’m about to show the world I can guard 1 through 5. … I thought it was going to be a secret weapon, but I've been practicing it and having multiple reps guarding the best players in the league on isolations. And the confidence is way up there” – D. Ayton on switching on D pic.twitter.com/csJ5TtddIv
— Dave McMenamin (@mcten) April 23, 2026

Truth be told, the 27-year-old has been moving well for the Lakers for the first two contests. He has willingly switched to multiple players on defense, showing improvement on that end. Plus, he’s avoided getting into foul trouble, only committing one in each game so far.

Deandre Ayton Finally Realized His True Role

When he came to LA, many pundits were skeptical about Ayton’s fit with Doncic, Reaves, and James. As the first overall pick in the famed 2018 NBA Draft, Ayton hasn’t lived up to the lofty expectations. Considering that some of his draftmates have become superstars, Ayton found himself in a dilemma about his true role as a pro.

DeAndre Ayton (Image Credits: Imagn)

However, it looks like he’s finally snapped out of his funk this season as a member of the Lakers. The athletic big man has shifted his focus to defense, helping LA finish the regular season strong.

This article first appeared on Total Pro Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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