The Los Angeles Lakers are still searching for answers after a humbling defeat at home, and their path forward just became more complicated. Already reeling from a lopsided loss over the weekend, the team will now be without key reserve big man Jaxson Hayes when they host the Orlando Magic on Tuesday night.
Hayes has officially been ruled out with a right ankle injury, thinning an already vulnerable frontcourt rotation. The setback stems from Sunday’s 111-89 blowout loss to the Boston Celtics, a game that quickly spiraled out of control.
Hayes logged just five minutes before exiting in the first half, finishing with two points and one rebound as the Lakers struggled to generate rhythm on either end of the floor.
Head coach JJ Redick initially described the injury as minor after imaging revealed only a small bruise. Hayes was labeled day-to-day, and there was optimism he could suit up against Orlando. Instead, the Lakers are choosing caution, prioritizing long-term health over rushing him back into action.
While Hayes is not the focal point of the offense, his role has been quietly important. Averaging 6.9 points and 3.9 rebounds in roughly 17 minutes per game, he has provided athleticism, energy, and vertical spacing in pick-and-roll situations, particularly alongside Luka Doncic.
His ability to run the floor and pressure the rim has helped stabilize bench units that have otherwise been inconsistent.
The timing is frustrating given the emotional context of Sunday’s defeat. The loss came on the same evening the franchise unveiled a statue honoring former coach and executive Pat Riley. To make matters worse, Boston managed to dominate despite the absence of All-Star forward Jayson Tatum, adding to the sting of the result.
Frontcourt questions intensify
At 34-22, Los Angeles remains fifth in the Western Conference standings, but momentum has stalled. Injuries and uneven performances have created instability at a critical point in the season.
Without Hayes, Redick will likely lean more heavily on starting center Deandre Ayton to anchor the paint. Increased minutes could also go to Maxi Kleber or Drew Timme, depending on matchups.
The concern is not simply about one regular-season game. The Lakers’ interior depth has been a recurring issue, and even a short-term absence underscores how thin the margin for error can be. Hayes‘ athletic profile offers something unique compared to the rest of the rotation, and replacing that energy is not straightforward.
With the postseason approaching, every contest carries weight for playoff positioning. The Lakers must regroup quickly and rediscover offensive cohesion.
Whether Hayes returns later this week or misses additional time, Los Angeles faces a clear challenge: overcoming adversity without letting one disappointing stretch snowball into something larger.
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