Luka Doncic Highlights Jaxson Hayes’ Major Improvement for Lakers This Season
The Los Angeles Lakers’ recent acquisition of Deandre Ayton has shifted the role of Jaxson Hayes back to the bench. Last season, Hayes demonstrated promise alongside Luka Doncic but struggled in a starter capacity. The Lakers believe that returning Hayes to his traditional role will optimize his performance this season.
Jaxson Hayes’ Performance Against the Memphis Grizzlies
On Friday night, Jaxson Hayes delivered a standout performance against the Memphis Grizzlies. He played 23 minutes, including crucial moments in the fourth quarter and scored 12 points on an impressive 5-of-6 shooting. In addition, he recorded two steals and one block, showcasing his ability to contribute defensively.
Head Coach JJ Redick’s Strategy
Head Coach JJ Redick opted for Hayes in the closing minutes due to his superior play. The decision highlights Hayes’ current form and effectiveness on the court. His performance indicates a growing confidence and understanding of the Lakers’ offensive strategies.
Luka Doncic’s Assessment of Hayes’ Improvements
Luka Doncic praised Hayes’ development, particularly in his ability to execute the pick-and-roll. “I think the most improvement he made during the summer was just following us, especially in the pick-and-roll,” Doncic noted. This development has allowed Hayes to better identify scoring opportunities alongside LeBron James.
Lakers’ Injury Challenges
This season, the Lakers have faced numerous injury issues, impacting their rotation. In the recent game, they played without key players such as Austin Reaves and Rui Hachimura. Despite these setbacks, Hayes expressed confidence in the team’s ability to adapt.
Hayes on Team Resilience
- “We’ve had a bunch of guys step up this year,” said Hayes, emphasizing team cohesion.
- He believes maintaining this level of play is crucial moving forward.
Jaxson Hayes’ progress this season indicates a positive trend for the Lakers as they navigate challenges. His synergy with Doncic and LeBron, coupled with improvements in his game, creates opportunities for success, especially in critical matches. With the right mindset, the Lakers aim to capitalize on their performances as they look forward to a resilient season.
