JJ Redick Praises Jaxson Hayes After Win Over Pelicans (jaxson hayes)

Emerson Raymont

Published: March 6, 2026 12:32 AM ET

Following the Lakers’ victory over the Pelicans, jaxson hayes drew specific praise from head coach JJ Redick for what Redick called a “really good season. ” The comments came after Hayes closed the game and delivered key defensive plays, underscoring why the Lakers have continued to trust him in late-game situations.

JJ Redick Praises Jaxson Hayes

Redick, who has prior experience playing with Hayes early in the big man’s career, said plainly that Hayes has improved as a basketball player. He singled out Hayes’ touch around the rim, pocket decisions and consistent energy when running the floor, blocking shots or finishing dunks. That praise followed the Lakers’ choice to trust Hayes to finish the recent game, a decision Redick validated in his postgame comments.

Closing out the Pelicans win

Hayes was chosen over the other center option to close the game and answered by coming up with multiple stops against Zion Williams, contributing to an effective fourth-quarter defensive stretch for the Lakers. The decision to put Hayes on the floor late highlights the coaching staff’s willingness to rely on his defensive presence in tight moments.

Numbers and role this season

Hayes has returned to Los Angeles on a one-year deal and has embraced a backup role, appearing in 51 games with seven starts while averaging about 17. 3 minutes per contest. He is shooting a career-best 77. 0% from the field and has averaged roughly 6. 7 points per game in some coverage, with about 4. 0 rebounds per game listed in others. The player also prepared in the offseason by adding 20 pounds to increase his strength, a change that coverage links to his improved productivity and willingness to play a supporting role.

What comes next for Hayes

Hayes has entrenched himself as a rotation piece through steady bench production and the ability to close games. He was benched during last season’s playoff series, a moment that made his return and offseason preparation notable, and he has since made the most of his opportunities. He remains a free agent candidate in the future, and continued late-game trust from the coaching staff would strengthen his case for staying in the rotation through the postseason.

Key takeaways