Jaxson Hayes Avoids Major Injury, Prepares for Season Opener

BREAKING: Los Angeles Lakers center Jaxson Hayes has avoided a serious injury following a hard fall in Friday’s preseason finale against the Sacramento Kings. X-rays revealed no fractures, and an MRI confirmed only a “light sprain” of his right wrist, allowing Hayes to target a return for the season opener against the Golden State Warriors on July 18, 2023.

During the preseason game, Hayes caught a lob pass from star point guard Luka Doncic and was bumped mid-air while attempting a two-handed dunk. Despite the injury, Hayes played through the second quarter, contributing six points, all from impressive dunks. “Being a dummy,” Hayes commented after practice on Sunday, reflecting on the fall, “I shouldn’t have tried to catch myself, should’ve just fallen.”

The chemistry between Hayes and Doncic is evolving as they play together for the first time in the preseason. Doncic’s exceptional passing ability in the pick-and-roll makes him an ideal partner for an athletic center like Hayes, who thrives on rim-running. Coach JJ Redick expressed satisfaction with the Lakers’ performance, noting 28 assists to just 10 turnovers in the game. However, he acknowledged that the team missed several assist opportunities due to miscommunication and adjustments needed with new teammates.

“It’s a learning period,” Hayes stated. “You just learn how they like their screens and how they want you to roll to the hoop.”

In a significant development, Hayes is also being considered for the Slovenian national team, working towards obtaining a Slovenian passport. He has closely followed Slovenia’s recent success in EuroBasket, where they reached the quarterfinals, recognizing this opportunity could elevate his career. “I wanted to just play on that stage,” he remarked, emphasizing his commitment to seizing this chance.

In roster news, the Lakers trimmed their lineup to 14 standard contract players on Saturday, waiving RJ Davis, Augustas Marciulionis, Anton Watson, and Nate Williams. The team retained center Christian Koloko and guards Chris Manon and Nick Smith Jr. on two-way contracts. Manon participated fully in practice following an ankle injury, while Bronny James and rookie Adou Thiero continued with modified workouts.

As the Lakers prepare for their upcoming season opener, all eyes will be on how quickly Hayes can bounce back and how he continues to build synergy with Doncic. Fans eagerly anticipate the team’s performance against the Warriors, marking a critical moment in the Lakers’ 2023 season.