Jaxson Hayes has been stepping up for the Los Angeles Lakers as they navigate through injuries and other challenges. On February 1, 2025, during their showdown against the New York Knicks, Hayes played 21 minutes and showcased his defensive prowess. He led the game with three steals and also contributed to his team by blocking shots, helping the Lakers secure a 128-112 victory.
Hayes finished the game with modest offensive stats, scoring four points, grabbing two rebounds, and handing out one assist. His flawless shooting performance was notable, as he was perfect from the field, making two of his attempts. The Lakers shot impressively overall, with a 58.0% shooting percentage, sinking 47 of 81 field goals. Hayes’ efficiency and defensive contributions were pivotal, as they helped maintain team momentum throughout the game.
Recent circumstances forced Hayes to take on more significant responsibilities. Following Anthony Davis’s abdominal injury, which sidelined him for at least a week, Hayes has been thrust under the spotlight. Head coach JJ Redick, noting the pressures of the situation, praised Hayes’ efforts during the Lakers’ 134-96 triumph over the Washington Wizards prior to facing the Knicks. He lauded Hayes for applying pressure on the rim and excelling defensively, stating, "Jaxson put pressure on the rim; defensively he was fantastic. There was not a point in the game where we did not give multiple efforts." Redick’s commendation highlights how important Hayes’ contributions are at this juncture.
Heading toward the trade deadline, the Lakers face the challenge of managing Hayes' matchups against formidable opponents, including Karl Anthony-Towns of the Knicks and former Laker Ivica Zubac from the L.A. Clippers. Both players pose significant threats, making Hayes’ performance even more pivotal as the Lakers strive to improve their position and overcome injuries. With upcoming games potentially bringing tougher challenges, the Lakers are evaluating options to bring support to the center position, where they have struggled.
While Hayes is proving himself potent on the court, another storyline looms—the resurfacing of controversy from his past. The NBA has reopened an investigation related to Hayes after footage emerged from July 28, 2021, showing him engaged in a troubling altercation with his ex-girlfriend, Sofia Jamora. A video published by TMZ captured the incident, during which Hayes is seen arguing with Jamora, pulling her from a doorway, and allegedly spitting near her. Disturbingly, Jamora pleaded for him to stop and expressed her fear, stating, "I'm not going to let you hit me anymore. What do I look like, a punching bag?" The investigation, as confirmed by NBA spokesman Mike Bass, was reopened due to the media coverage surrounding the incident.
Following the altercation, Hayes has faced significant repercussions. He was arrested, charged with several offenses, and eventually pleaded no contest to charges including misdemeanor counts of false imprisonment. Hayes received three years of probation, mandated community service, and domestic violence classes as part of his sentencing. Despite the past issues, he has continued to work to improve his performance on the court.
Now with the Lakers, Hayes is averaging 5 points and 4.2 rebounds this season, primarily serving as a reserve. The team is facing scrutiny not just for their performance on the court—but also for how they handle Hayes’ situation amid the investigation. The duality of Hayes’ current on-court success contrasted with his troubling past puts the Lakers at a crossroads. The franchise is under pressure to support both their short-term performance goals and the long-term integrity of the organization. The approach they take could be decisive, especially as they attempt to climb the ranks heading toward playoff season.
Hayes’ ascent as he capitalizes on injury-induced opportunities is noteworthy. Yet, the unresolved issues underlying his past behavior cast a shadow over his future with the team. Will the Lakers continue to embrace Hayes during this tumultuous period, or will the concerns tied to his previous actions lead to significant consequences as the season progresses? The coming weeks will likely reveal much about not only Hayes’ potential for impact but also the Lakers' responses, both on and off the court.