Udonis Haslem Offers Powerful Support for Struggling Laker Ayton

Former Heat champion encourages Deandre Ayton to stay focused despite inconsistent season in Los Angeles.

Apr. 10, 2026 at 6:24am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A cubist, geometric painting depicting the energy and movement of a basketball game, with the players' forms broken down into abstract shapes and planes.Veteran leadership and a new perspective could help Lakers center Deandre Ayton rediscover his game and contribute to the team's playoff push.Los Angeles Today

Deandre Ayton, the starting center for the Los Angeles Lakers, has struggled with inconsistency this season, drawing criticism from fans. However, three-time NBA champion Udonis Haslem, who played a key role on the Miami Heat's championship teams, offered Ayton words of encouragement after a recent game, telling him he is 'still that guy' and just needs to approach his role differently to help the team win.

Why it matters

Ayton's performance is crucial for the Lakers, who are relying on him to provide a strong interior presence alongside their star trio of Luka Doncic, Austin Reaves, and LeBron James. Haslem's veteran leadership and championship experience could help Ayton regain his confidence and find ways to positively impact the team, even if his stats don't always reflect his value.

The details

Ayton, who joined the Lakers after being waived by the Portland Trail Blazers, has averaged 12.4 points and 8.0 rebounds per game this season while shooting 67.2% from the field. While his numbers are decent, Lakers fans have been frustrated by his inconsistent play. However, in a recent win over the Golden State Warriors, Ayton scored 21 points, showing he is capable of impactful performances.

  • Ayton was waived by the Portland Trail Blazers earlier this season.
  • On April 10, 2026, Ayton scored 21 points in the Lakers' 119-103 win over the Golden State Warriors.

The players

Deandre Ayton

The starting center for the Los Angeles Lakers, who has struggled with inconsistency this season after joining the team from the Portland Trail Blazers.

Udonis Haslem

A three-time NBA champion with the Miami Heat, who is known for his veteran leadership and championship experience.

Luka Doncic

One of the Lakers' star players, along with Austin Reaves and LeBron James.

Austin Reaves

One of the Lakers' star players, along with Luka Doncic and LeBron James.

LeBron James

One of the Lakers' star players, along with Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“I want you to know that you are still that guy. You have to shift your focus a little bit, and there are other things you have to do to help this team win, but you are still that guy. It's just in a different role, you just have to approach it differently.”

— Udonis Haslem, Former NBA Champion

What’s next

The Lakers will need Ayton to continue to improve and provide a consistent presence in the paint as they push for a playoff spot in the Western Conference.

The takeaway

Udonis Haslem's words of encouragement to Deandre Ayton highlight the importance of veteran leadership and mentorship in the NBA. Even as Ayton has struggled with inconsistency, Haslem's belief in him could help the young center regain his confidence and find ways to positively impact the Lakers' playoff push.