Lakers’ Jaxson Hayes Escapes Major Injury, Eyes Season Opener

UPDATE: Lakers center Jaxson Hayes has avoided a major injury after a harrowing fall during Friday’s preseason finale. X-rays on his right wrist returned negative, and an MRI revealed only a light sprain, paving the way for him to potentially play in the season opener against the Golden State Warriors on Tuesday.

Hayes suffered the injury while attempting to jam a two-handed dunk after catching a lob from star guard Luka Doncic. During the first quarter, he was bumped mid-air, causing him to land awkwardly. Although he missed the second half of the game, Hayes confidently stated that he is on track to return. “Being a dummy,” Hayes remarked about his fall, adding, “I shouldn’t have tried to catch myself; I should’ve just fallen.”

In the preseason loss to the Sacramento Kings, Hayes scored six points, all from high-flying dunks, marking his first game alongside Doncic in a Lakers uniform. Doncic’s exceptional playmaking skills are expected to be a game-changer for Hayes, as the point guard consistently delivers passes from every angle. However, the Lakers are still adjusting to their new dynamic, with Deandre Ayton and other teammates working to sync their movements with Doncic’s unique style.

Coach JJ Redick praised the team’s performance, noting they recorded 28 assists against just 10 turnovers in the exhibition matchup. However, he also highlighted missed opportunities, estimating the Lakers could have added at least seven more assists if not for miscommunication on lobs and complex passes.

Hayes elaborated on the learning curve, saying, “When you start playing with a new big or a new point guard, it’s a learning period. You just learn how they like their screens and how they like you to roll to the hoop.” The chemistry between Hayes and Doncic is developing, and Hayes is already being considered for the Slovenian national team, thanks to his connection with Doncic. He revealed that he is in the process of obtaining a Slovenian passport, which could open doors for him to join the national squad in future competitions.

With the Lakers cutting their roster down to 14 standard contract players on Saturday, they waived RJ Davis, Augustas Marciulionis, Anton Watson, and Nate Williams after training camp. The team retained center Christian Koloko and guards Chris Manon and Nick Smith Jr. on two-way contracts.

As the Lakers gear up for their opening game, the focus remains on Hayes’ recovery and the team’s integration of Doncic into their system. The clock is ticking, and fans are eager to see how this new lineup will perform against their rivals.

Stay tuned for more updates as the situation develops.