Athletic big guys that can run the floor, defend the basket, and finish above the rim are extremely valuable in the fast-paced NBA of today. Jaxson Hayes is one player who embodies this type. Hayes has made a name for himself in the NBA as an exciting young player thanks to his high-flying dunks, exceptional shot-blocking, and contagious energy. The 7-foot center, who currently plays for the Los Angeles Lakers, is still honing his craft and hoping to land a bigger NBA position. Hayes’ career has been full of growth and potential, starting as an obscure high school athlete and ending as a top-10 NBA lottery pick.
Early Life and High School Career
On May 23, 2000, Jaxson Reed Hayes was born in Norman, Oklahoma. Hayes was a late bloomer, in contrast to many NBA players who take center stage from a young age. At just 6 feet tall, he was not regarded as a top prospect during his freshman year at Cincinnati, Ohio’s Moeller High School. But by his senior year, he had grown to 7 feet thanks to a huge growth spurt, completely changing his game. Hayes’ average as a senior was:
12 points per game
7 rebounds per game
4 blocks per game
Even with these impressive scores, he didn’t get much attention until the end of his high school tenure. He eventually committed to the University of Texas after NCAA scouts noticed his athleticism and defensive skills.
College Career at Texas
Hayes only played one season of college (2018–2019), but it was sufficient to establish his status as one of the best NBA prospects. He immediately established himself as a dominant shot-blocker and effective finisher while playing for the Texas Longhorns. His statistics for the first year:
10.0 points per game
5.0 rebounds per game
2.2 blocks per game
72.8% field goal percentage (one of the best in the country)
He scored a career-high 19 points against TCU in one of his most impressive games. The Big 12 Freshman of the Year title went to him because of his outstanding shot-blocking and outstanding finishing skills.
NBA Career: From New Orleans to Los Angeles
New Orleans Pelicans (2019–2023)
The Atlanta Hawks selected Hayes eighth overall in the 2019 NBA Draft, but he was dealt to the New Orleans Pelicans right away as part of a multi-player transaction.He displayed glimpses of his enormous potential during his rookie season, posting:
7.4 points per game
4.0 rebounds per game
67.2% shooting from the field
He was an interesting young player because of his rim protection and high-flying dunks. But because of his erratic defensive awareness and rebounding, his contribution to the squad changed over time.In 2021–2022, he had his most successful season, averaging:
9.3 points per game
4.5 rebounds per game
61.6% field goal shooting
He was able to join free agency in 2023 because the Pelicans did not keep him despite these improvements.
Los Angeles Lakers (2023–2025)
Hayes agreed to a deal with the Los Angeles Lakers on July 6, 2023. Despite playing fewer minutes than Anthony Davis, he was an energy player who made a contribution.Hayes participated in 70 games during the 2023–24 season, averaging:
4.3 points per game
3.0 rebounds per game
12.5 minutes per game
Despite having a small role, Hayes has demonstrated a desire to get better and has stated that he would like to play a bigger part in the Lakers’ rotation.
Playing Style: A Rim-Running Shot Blocker
Hayes’ game is built around three core strengths:
Elite Lob Finisher: In quick breaks and pick-and-roll scenarios, his stature and athleticism make him an ideal lob target. A strong playmaker who can provide him with alley-oops is ideal for him.
Ability to Block Shots: He is a formidable presence in the paint due to his 7-foot wingspan and innate ability to block shots. He has everything he needs to be a top-tier rim protector, even though he still needs to work on his defensive positioning.
High Energy and Hustle: Hayes is renowned for delivering plays that have the ability to change the course of a game, whether it be put-back dunks, chase-down blocks, or sprinting during transition. He still needs to work on a few things, though:
Consistency in rebounding
Defensive discipline and foul trouble
Practicing a three-point or mid-range shot
Future Outlook: Can Jaxson Hayes Reach His Full Potential?
Hayes, who is only 24 years old, has plenty of time to become a center of starting caliber. He might develop into a player like, if he keeps improving his game
Clint Cape-la – A lob-finishing, rim-protecting center
Ja-vale McGee – An athletic big man with high-energy plays
DeAndre Jordan (prime years) – A dominant rebound-er and shot-blocker
To get to this point, Hayes must
Boost his rebounding and defensive IQ
Become a reliable mid-range jumper.
Get additional playing time during crucial situations.
He has a fantastic opportunity to learn from LeBron James and Anthony Davis with the Lakers. He might make a significant contribution to a team that is vying for a title if he takes advantage of this.
Conclusion
The transformation of Jaxson Hayes from an underappreciated high school athlete to a top-10 NBA draft selection is remarkable. His exceptional athleticism, rim protection, and grit make him a great asset in today’s NBA, even though he hasn’t yet realized his full potential. Hayes has the potential to become a dominant force in the league with the correct growth and chances.
”Jaxson Hayes A high-flying NBA big man with unrealized potential, exceptional athleticism, and shot-blocking abilities. Can he develop into a vital member of the Lakers’ roster”.
