When the Los Angeles Lakers traded Anthony Davis for Luka Doncic, they acquired a franchise superstar, but concerns remained about their need for a starting-caliber center. They initially believed they had one in Mark Williams, but their trade with the Charlotte Hornets was rescinded due to concerns about Williams’ health. However, Jaxson Hayes may have been the answer to their center dilemma all along, making his potential injury a significant setback.
Jaxson Hayes appeared on the Lakers’ injury report ahead of their crucial matchup against the Boston Celtics on Saturday. He seemed to sustain the injury late in overtime during the Lakers’ victory over the New York Knicks.
Hayes was fouled and briefly stayed down before getting up gingerly and sinking both free throws to give the Lakers a 109-107 lead, which they maintained. As the Lakers aim to extend their eight-game winning streak against the Celtics, Hayes is officially listed as questionable due to a right knee contusion.
If Hayes is unable to play, the Lakers will face frontcourt depth issues. Their best bench option, Trey Jemison, is on a two-way contract. Veteran big man Alex Len was signed as an insurance policy but is only a limited-minute player.
Another option would be to go small, potentially shifting Jarred Vanderbilt into the starting lineup. Christian Koloko, who has shown promise as a capable rotation center, is currently with the South Bay Lakers in the G League under a two-way contract. If Hayes’ injury persists, Koloko could be recalled to the main roster.
The Lakers’ need for a starting center has been a topic of discussion even before Davis was traded. Davis had previously expressed his preference to play alongside another center, similar to the Lakers’ 2020 championship formula.
Since the trade deadline, however, Hayes has proven to be a solution on both ends of the court. He has built strong chemistry with Luka Doncic in the pick-and-roll. In the Lakers’ win over the New Orleans Pelicans on Tuesday, Hayes recorded a season-high 19 points on 8-of-8 shooting, mostly off lobs from Doncic.
Defensively, he has been a reliable presence. His current defensive rating of 110.9 ranks fourth on the team, trailing only Vanderbilt, Doncic, and Jordan Goodwin.
