Your Los Angeles Lakers received a number of new faces in hopes of propelling them to the top of the Western Conference, where they will compete with the Phoenix Suns, Denver Nuggets, and other teams. Last year, we saw one of Anthony Davis’s greatest performances, as he was on a defensive tear throughout the postseason before colliding with Nikola Jokic and running out of steam.
Despite the fact that the star big man has stated a desire to remain at power forward, the Lakers have been unable to find a steady, full-time center to allow him to do so since 2020, forcing him to play the majority of the time as the 5. It may be argued that this is preferable because LeBron James can guard 4s instead of faster wings, but LA reportedly believes they can fulfill AD’s dream this year.
They have yet to add another big man this summer, but Jaxson Hayes was welcomed in early after a disastrous first couple seasons with the New Orleans Pelicans, and he has potential on both sides of the floor with his agility and long wingspan. According to recent rumors, the Lakers are optimistic Hayes will be able to start next to Davis in the front court, giving the former champion the freedom he has been seeking.
“The Lakers have five players who deserve at least 20 minutes per game, at the very least during the regular season: James, Davis, Rui Hachimura, Jarrett Vanderbilt, and Taurean Prince.” That’s without even considering Jaxson Hayes, who the organization hopes will start and play a significant role alongside Davis in two-big lineups.”
It will be extremely fascinating to see how this plays out, and I believe a lot of it will depend on whether or not AD resumes hitting threes at a high rate. Last season, he hit 25% from deep in the regular season and 33% in the playoffs. Hayes isn’t a shooter, and LA desperately needs space.
