The Luka Doncic trade has led to Jaxson Hayes stepping into a starting role with the Los Angeles Lakers, where he has excelled despite initial concerns. In a standout performance against the New Orleans Pelicans, he scored a season-high 19 points and grabbed 10 rebounds, attributing his success to superstar teammates Luka Doncic and LeBron James. Hayes emphasized the importance of the coaching staff and team chemistry as factors in their recent success. As the Lakers aim to maintain their momentum, Hayes stressed the need for focus and consistent defensive effort to be formidable contenders in the playoffs.
Following the Luka Doncic trade, center Jaxson Hayes found himself in a starting position for the Los Angeles Lakers, and despite early worries, he has excelled. Hayes is aware of his responsibilities playing alongside Doncic and LeBron James, and he has been fulfilling his role admirably.
Hayes showcased his finest performance of the season during the Lakers’ victory against the New Orleans Pelicans, making all eight of his field goal attempts and converting all three free throws to achieve a season-high of 19 points and 10 rebounds. When asked about his impressive night, Hayes attributed all the success to his superstar teammates.
“Honestly, when you’re alongside Luka and LeBron, they will get you the ball,” Hayes remarked. “I just positioned myself near the rim, and they delivered it to me. The rest is just a blessing from God to be 7-foot. I didn’t do anything; it was all those guys.”
While there’s no denying that Luka and LeBron simplify things for a big man like Hayes, the energetic center deserves recognition as well. His ability to set screens and maintain a strong presence significantly aids the Lakers’ superstars, and he has done well to know his spots and be prepared for passes from them.
More importantly, the Lakers are currently enjoying their best stretch of basketball this season, and Hayes credited the coaching staff for their effective strategies and preparations, ensuring that everyone remains focused.
“The coaching staff, without a doubt,” Hayes answered when asked about the Lakers’ success. “Everyone on the team has been buzzing around, playing like absolute maniacs with their hair on fire. Winning comes easy when you’re playing solid defense. It really boils down to our scheme, the coaching staff, and the guys executing.”
Now that the Lakers have shown what they can accomplish, Hayes understands that it is crucial not to let their guard down.
“We just need to keep this momentum going,” Hayes stated. “We can’t get too comfortable; the key is staying focused and pushing onward. That’s what it’s all about.”
If the Lakers maintain their focus, especially on defense, they will become a formidable opponent come playoff time.
Luka Doncic likely to remain with Lakers long-term
With the Lakers acquiring Luka Doncic, the top priority for the franchise is to ensure he stays with the team for the long haul, which it is believed he desires as well.
A recent report indicated that Doncic values loyalty and wanted to finish his career in Dallas, and that mentality is expected to continue with the Lakers. The report noted that he is enjoying his time with the Lakers and in Los Angeles overall.
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