Deandre Ayton recently faced a brief incident at the Lyden Pindling International Airport while returning to Los Angeles. According to a report from TMZ, the Lakers center was detained for a short time as authorities conducted a search of his bag due to an allegation that he had been smoking marijuana on the premises.
According to the Central Division of the Royal Bahamas Police Force, officers had the right to search Ayton’s belongings after he was reportedly seen using cannabis. However, the search yielded no illegal substances, and he was ultimately released without any charges being filed, as confirmed by his attorney, Devard Francis.
Currently, Ayton is on his way back to Los Angeles, where the Lakers are set to begin their practice sessions ahead of their upcoming game against the Clippers on Friday night. Ayton, who hails from the Bahamas, recently played for the Bahamian National team during the 2024 Olympic qualifying rounds, where he averaged an impressive double-double of 19.5 points and 11.8 rebounds, partnering with current NBA stars Buddy Hield and VJ Edgecombe Jr., as well as former NBA player Eric Gordon.
This season, the former No. 1 overall draft pick has experienced a fluctuating performance with the Lakers, registering an average of 13.2 points and 8.5 rebounds over 28.2 minutes per game. Despite the recent distraction, Ayton’s potential and contributions to the team remain significant as they prepare for the challenges that lie ahead.