After getting benched in the Lakers’ playoff series last year, most assumed Jaxson Hayes’ playing days in LA were done.
Not only did Hayes return on a one-year deal, but he also prepared in the summer to be a better version of himself.
He put on 20 pounds to give himself some more strength, and it’s paid off. Hayes is having a productive year for the Lakers, averaging 6.7 points per game while shooting a career-best 77% from the field. He’s accomplished this while also embracing a backup role.
It seems
Hayes is willing to do whatever it takes to win, and he displayed that in the team’s victory over the Pelicans. Hayes ended up closing out the game, with Lakers head coach JJ Redick picking him over his other center option, Deandre Ayton.
Hayes reared Redick’s decision by coming up with multiple stops against Zion Williams, which was part of an impressive fourth-quarter defensive performance by the purple and gold.
During Redick’s postgame media availability, he made sure Hayes got the recognition he deserved.
“Jaxson’s had a really good season,” Redick said. “I know I played with him his first two years. He’s a better basketball player. He’s gotten better. He’s making touch shots around the rim. He’s making great pocket decisions. He’s a good basketball player that, frankly, he consistently injects energy into the group when he runs the floor, blocks a shot or gets those dunks.”
It would’ve been completely understandable if Hayes didn’t return to LA. And even more relatable if he just came here to do what he’s always done and focus on playing well enough to earn another contract elsewhere.
Instead, Hayes pushed to get better and be a true team player. He has taken advantage of every opportunity and thanks to his play, there have been a handful of close games where he was one of the five players on the floor helping the Lakers win.
Hayes is setting an example of selflessness and the ways it can benefit the individual as well as the team. This is a very good season for Hayes so far, and perhaps he’s even making a case to be LA’s starting center.
Regardless of his role, what’s known now is that he’s a player the Lakers can trust. He has entrenched himself as a member of the rotation and, come playoff time, if he keeps playing like this, he’ll remain on the floor as an impactful player for Los Angeles.
You can follow Edwin on Twitter at @ECreates88 or on Bluesky at @ecreates88.bsky.social.
