Lakers’ Jaxson Hayes Ready to Step Up After Davis Trade

PHILADELPHIA, Pennsylvania — With Anthony Davis traded to the Dallas Mavericks, the Los Angeles Lakers find themselves relying heavily on center Jaxson Hayes as their primary player at the position. This unexpected shift comes as the Lakers grapple with injuries and the fallout from recent trades, leaving Hayes poised for increased responsibility.

In a recent practice session, Hayes expressed both excitement and optimism about the change. “It’s really exciting with everything going on,” he said. “Obviously, we’ll miss our guys AD and Max and J. Hood, but a lot of us have to take full advantage of it. I’m really excited to get to play with Luka [Doncic]. He’s a great facilitator and one of the best lob passers in the league.”

Hayes, who has largely served as a backup, now has the opportunity to step into a starting role, especially with Christian Wood still recovering from a knee injury. “I feel like I’m in one of the best fits for me team-wise,” Hayes stated, acknowledging the unique circumstances the Lakers are in. “If a trade happens, I’d love it, but I’m happy to take full advantage of my minutes right now.”

Despite Hayes’ enthusiasm, the need for another center remains critical. He noted, “I feel like we’ll be fine, but having another big would be beneficial. It’d only be good for the team.” The challenge ahead of Hayes involves balancing the expectations of managing the center position while thriving offensively and defensively.

Meanwhile, Davis, reflecting on his surprise trade, shared his shock during a shootaround with the Mavericks. “I had no idea,” he admitted. “I sent the team a text congratulating them on the win against the Knicks. Then an hour later, I found out I was no longer with the team.”

Davis, who was an integral part of the Lakers’ 2020 championship, is focused on his new journey in Dallas. “I’m excited to get back to playing basketball,” said Davis, who is looking forward to reclaiming the power forward position, a role he’s more comfortable in. “I can’t wait to be back at the 4 and see how it goes.”

Davis highlighted the benefit of having centers like Daniel Gafford and Derrick Lively alongside him, easing his physical workload as he transitions to the Mavericks. “This opportunity is about winning championships,” Davis emphasized. “I have everything to prove.”

As the Lakers look to build for the future around Doncic, Hayes’ progress will be watched closely as he adapts to the spotlight and more minutes. Coach JJ Redick has been supportive, emphasizing each player’s importance to the team. “The center position is crucial,” he noted, recognizing the need for Hayes to find his rhythm amidst ongoing personnel changes.

In the wake of Davis’s departure, fans and analysts alike are curious about how Hayes and the Lakers will navigate these uncharted waters as they search for chemistry and success in the season ahead.