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HOUSTON, TEXAS – OCTOBER 06: Clint Capela #30 of the Houston Rockets passes around Kristaps Porziņģis #8 of the Atlanta Hawks during the first half of the preseason game at Toyota Center on October 06, 2025 in Houston, Texas. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Alex Slitz/Getty Images)
NBA center Clint Capela had a strong response to DeAndre Ayton using his name in a negative context this week. Capela remains a reserve for the Houston Rockets, but his name was in the news for other reasons this week. Ayton referenced Capela in an insulting manner when discussing his role in the Los Angeles Lakers’ offense during a rant to the media. Fans have wondered if Capela took exception to this since he’s remained silent since then.
Capela posted the following on Instagram tonight to respond two days after Ayton’s comment was made:
“U got 2 of the best floor generals in the game my dawg Lockinnn”
The Rockets center clearly didn’t enjoy being used in such a negative context by another player in the league. Capela added a couple of laughing emojis after his message calling Ayton for not making the most of his current situation.
The two floor generals mentioned by Capela are Luka Doncic and LeBron James. Both incredible talents have a reputation for making others better and giving them the best chance to succeed. Ayton complaining about his role and struggling makes it easier for Capela to clap back with facts.
Why Capela Insult Backfired On Ayton
Most of the reaction from NBA fans and analysts have seen Ayton mocked for his own comment. The Lakers signed Ayton to be the starting center and gave him a dream scenario to rebuild his career.
Three great offensive players of LeBron, Luka, and Austin Reaves can carry the offense, but they need the other players to do things they can’t. Ayton was expected to score easy points in the paint, dominate the rebounds, and pose a defensive threat to stop opposing centers. Lackluster results have seen him failing to harm his reputation even more.
Capela was once a valued piece for the contending Rockets in the 2010s and had a similar role to Ayton. Legendary facilitators James Harden and Chris Paul set Capela up for easy points to make him feel more valuable. Ayton complaining about being used like Capela raised a lot of eyebrows since Capela has accomplished more in the league.
DeAndre Ayton Flirting With Losing NBA Job
Ayton’s season with the Lakers was viewed as a “make or break” year once he joined the team. If Ayton can’t make the most out of this opportunity of playing with great passers and having little competition at the center position, it’s hard to see other NBA teams trusting him.
Today’s NBA landscape sees players losing their spots in the league faster than previous years. Teams are not going to sign a talent they distrust due to their previous draft slot or the potential they once held years ago.
The Phoenix Suns and Portland Trail Blazers both gave up on Ayton, despite his former number one draft pick status. Lakers fans are begging the team to replace him in the offseason. A strong end to the season and an impressive postseason run may be pivotal for Ayton to ensure job security beyond this year.
Joey Haverford Joey Haverford is a seasoned sports content writer with over 12 years of experience. He has covered the NBA, WNBA, MLB, NFL, and professional wrestling in the sports industry. More about Joey Haverford
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