The Los Angeles Lakers will be without backup big man Jaxson Hayes when they return home from their eight-game road trip on Thursday to face the Philadelphia 76ers.
Hayes was suspended for one game by the NBA following an incident during the Lakers‘ January 30 matchup against the Washington Wizards, in which he reportedly pushed a mascot. While it remains unclear what prompted the confrontation, the league deemed it necessary to issue a one-game suspension, emphasizing player and staff safety.
Hayes has been a key contributor off the bench for the Lakers this season, providing energy, effort, and consistency. He has stepped up effectively as a starter whenever Deandre Ayton has been sidelined due to injury or rest, giving Los Angeles stability in the frontcourt. In 41 games this season, including four starts, Hayes has averaged 6.4 points and 3.8 rebounds in just over 17 minutes per contest, shooting 77.5% from the field and 64.9% from the free-throw line.
His athleticism – particularly in pick-and-roll situations and defensive rotations – has made him a valuable role player in head coach JJ Redick‘s rotation.
Timme set for increased role
With Hayes sidelined, two-way contract big man Drew Timme is expected to see expanded playing time. Redick has been gradually incorporating Timme into more lineups in recent weeks, especially in two-big frontcourt sets, allowing the Lakers to exploit matchups against larger opponents while maintaining spacing.
Timme‘s skill set as a versatile scorer and passer makes him a natural fit to step into Hayes‘ role temporarily, providing the team with a reliable option in both transition and half-court offense.
Hayes, who re-signed with the Lakers in the offseason, is in his third year with the team after joining as a free agent ahead of the 2023-24 season. During his first year, he filled in admirably as the starting center in Anthony Davis‘ absence, demonstrating scoring ability and defensive versatility.
However, Hayes was eventually benched during the Lakers‘ opening-round playoff loss to the Minnesota Timberwolves. Even so, his performances have been marked by energy plays, defensive rotations, and occasional highlight-reel dunks, earning him recognition as one of the more consistent contributors off the bench.
Timme‘s increased minutes offer an opportunity for him to demonstrate his growth and readiness for larger responsibilities. In limited appearances, he has shown poise around the rim, solid rebounding instincts, and developing chemistry with the Lakers‘ perimeter stars.
Redick will rely on Timme to maintain defensive pressure while also helping initiate offense from the high post or short-roll situations. While the Lakers will miss Hayes‘ athleticism and experience for this single game, the team has the depth and versatility to adapt as they return home and look to build momentum.
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