JJ Redick shed light on perhaps the sole positive for the Los Angeles Lakers after their 120-113 loss to the Denver Nuggets.
He was referring to Jaxson Hayes, the reserve center who delivered a solid outing against a stern Nuggets unit after the Lakers lost center Deandre Ayton early in the game to a knee injury.
JJ Redick ‘Very Confident’ in Jaxson Hayes as Potential Starter
“Very confident,” Redick replied when asked how he felt about Jaxson Hayes’ performance and his ability to step up in the absence of Deandre Ayton. Speaking to reporters after the tough loss, the head coach added, “I thought he was terrific tonight.”
“He played basically 28 minutes, and that was a lot for him. I think not having Maxi tonight actually really hurt us, particularly with DA out. But Jaxson, I definitely have confidence in him.”
Considering Hayes’ recent performances, Redick will likely look at his reserve center to make the starting lineup. The big man was a massive help offensively as he came off the bench to chip in with 19 points on 8-of-10 shooting, along with 5 rebounds.
JJ Redick on his confidence in Jaxson Hayes if Deandre Ayton is forced to miss time:
“Very confident. I thought he was terrific tonight. He played basically 28 minutes and that was a lot for him. I think not having Maxi tonight actually really hurt us, particularly with DA out.… — Lakers Nation (@LakersNation) March 6, 2026
Redick’s comments come on the back of his earlier praise for the center after the team’s win over the New Orleans Pelicans. “He’s making touch shots around the rim. He’s making great pocket decisions. He’s a good basketball player who, frankly, consistently injects energy into the group when he runs the floor, blocks a shot, or gets those dunks.”
On the injury front, Ayton was dealing with left knee soreness that kept him out of the game after just 5 minutes. The Lakers also suffered an injury scare after LeBron James went down with an elbow injury in the fourth quarter. Redick confirmed that James fell on it and was uncomfortable enough that he couldn’t continue, though the severity remains unclear.
Should Hayes indeed make the cut as a starter for the next stretch of games, he will be expected to deliver like he has so far this season and more. At the time of writing, he averages 6.7 points and 4.0 rebounds in 52 games. He is looked at as a legitimate lob threat and an improved rebounder and offensive player.
Only time will tell if Redick puts Hayes in the starting five as the Lakers play the second night of a back-to-back. They host the Indiana Pacers at home on Friday.
