Luka Doncic has fit right in with the Los Angeles Lakers. Since his move from Dallas to the West Coast in February 2025, the Slovenian star has managed to blend seamlessly with his new teammates, building strong connections and finding the rhythm that defines his playmaking brilliance.
Among all his new colleagues, Doncic has developed an especially close bond with center Jaxson Hayes. Their on-court chemistry has grown so much that Doncic is reportedly joking about helping Hayes switch nationalities so they can play together for Slovenia’s national team.
Hayes, who signed a $3.4 million contract with the Lakers this offseason, seems to have found his groove alongside the superstar guard. Both players share the same agent, which has helped strengthen their partnership within the Lakers’ roster. Their growing rapport has been evident throughout the preseason, with the duo displaying a natural connection that excites fans and teammates alike.
That’s my guy, we’re working on getting me a Slovenian passport right now so I can play with him next summer.
Hayes said with a laugh after the Lakers’ preseason game against the Dallas Mavericks on Wednesday, October 15.
His playful comment perfectly captures the positive atmosphere in the Lakers’ locker room, even as the team awaits the return of its veteran leader, LeBron James. The four-time NBA champion continues to recover from a sciatic nerve issue, but he is expected to be back in action by mid-November.
Fans mock Jaxson Hayes over his “plans” to play for Slovenia
Despite his physical gifts, standing seven feet tall with rare agility for his size, Hayes has often been criticized for not reaching his full potential. Many fans feel he has yet to take the next step to become an elite player, and his joke about joining Slovenia’s national team quickly sparked a wave of online ridicule.
Social media lit up with sarcastic comments.
Imagine getting Jaxson Hayes as your country’s naturalized player.
One fan wrote. Another added,
Bro wants to stay a Laker so bad that he’s changing nationalities.
Others chimed in with,
Lmao, very smart move for job security from a fringe NBA player tbh.
Another user reminded everyone,
Daniel Gafford tried to do this as well before anyone goes crazy. Still a long process.
While the odds of Hayes ever donning a Slovenian jersey are slim, the exchange provided fans with an entertaining off-court storyline before the season begins. For now, both Doncic and Hayes are focused on building momentum as the Lakers prepare to open the 2025-26 NBA campaign against the Golden State Warriors on Tuesday, October 21.
Their growing camaraderie, rooted in humor, trust, and shared ambition, has become one of the early bright spots for Los Angeles, fueling hopes that this version of the Lakers can translate good chemistry into real success on the court.
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