Jaxson Hayes is beginning his second season with the Lakers, and with the new year comes an opportunity for a fresh perspective. He has reconnected with veteran JJ Redick, who mentored him during his rookie year and is now serving as a coach for the Lakers.
During Media Day, Hayes spoke to ESPN LA about the various areas of his game that he aims to enhance this NBA season.
“I’m looking to improve my rebounding a bit this year,” Hayes stated. “Plus, I want to be a little more assertive on the offensive side. While I’ll still maintain a team-first mentality, I think being more aggressive will benefit both me and the team by generating more open shots for everyone.
“Ultimately, I’m here to fulfill whatever role they need and continue being that essential glue guy.”
Hayes averaged only three rebounds last season, which is significantly lower than his career average of 3.8. This makes it crucial for him to focus on enhancing this part of his game and regaining his previous performance level.
Ideally, a player of Hayes’ size should be contributing more on the boards. He ranked as the eighth-best rebounder on the team, far behind his frontcourt teammates, with Anthony Davis leading the team at 12.6 rebounds per game and Christian Wood grabbing an average of 5.1.
Consistency has always been a challenge for Hayes. For every sequence where he plays like a whirlwind, making spectacular dunks and energizing the team, there are moments that reveal mental lapses, highlighting why he hasn’t fully tapped into his potential.
If Hayes intends to be more aggressive, it must serve the collective good, which he undoubtedly understands. So far in the two preseason games following Media Day, he has averaged seven points and seven rebounds.
His time shared with Anthony Davis during the two big lineups against the Phoenix Suns showed promise. With Christian Wood sidelined for at least another month, Hayes has a chance in the early part of the season to argue for a place in Redick’s rotation.
After five years in the league, Hayes hasn’t developed as much as expected. Had he reached his full potential, he might have secured a lucrative contract from the New Orleans Pelicans after his initial deal expired.
Instead, he finds himself on a minimum contract, eager to demonstrate his value. Nevertheless, at just 24 years old, he remains far from being considered a lost cause. Improvement in consistency and a reduction in errors are the main expectations for him.
This summer, he opted into his contract, providing him with every motivation to elevate his game and ensure that his next contract establishes a path toward ongoing success, whether with the Lakers or the highest bidder for his talents.
You can follow Edwin on Twitter at @ECreates88.
Jaxson Hayes Aims for a Breakout Season with Lakers: Focus on Rebounding and Consistency
Who is Jaxson Hayes?
Jaxson Hayes is a professional basketball player currently playing for the Los Angeles Lakers in the NBA. Standing at an impressive 213 cm (7 feet), he was born on May 23, 2000, making him 24 years old. Hayes played college basketball for the Texas Longhorns and was drafted in 2019, entering the league with high expectations due to his athleticism and skill set. His development in the NBA has made him a player to watch, especially as he aims for a breakout season with the Lakers.
Why This Season is Crucial for Hayes
As Jaxson Hayes prepares for the upcoming NBA season, several factors contribute to why this year is pivotal for his career:
- Increased Role: With the Lakers making roster changes, Hayes is expected to take on a larger role, especially in rebounding.
- Consistency in Performance: Establishing a consistent playstyle will be key to his success and the team’s success.
- Building Chemistry: Developing strong on-court relationships with teammates can enhance his performance and the overall team dynamic.
Focusing on Rebounding
One of the primary areas Hayes aims to improve this season is his rebounding ability. Rebounding is crucial in basketball as it directly impacts possession and scoring opportunities. Here’s how he plans to enhance this aspect:
1. Physical Conditioning
Improving his strength and agility will allow Hayes to box out opponents more effectively and secure rebounds. This involves a dedicated off-season training regimen focusing on:
- Weight training to build upper and lower body strength.
- Agility drills to enhance quickness and footwork.
2. Positioning and Timing
Understanding where to position himself before a shot is crucial for effective rebounding. Hayes is focusing on:
- Anticipating where the ball will land based on the shooter’s angle and distance.
- Improving his timing to jump at the right moment to secure the ball.
3. Mental Preparation
Mental preparedness can significantly impact performance. Hayes plans to work on his focus and awareness during games by:
- Studying game film to understand opponents’ tendencies.
- Visualizing successful rebounding scenarios before games.
Enhancing Consistency
Consistency in performance is vital for any player, particularly for Hayes as he seeks to establish himself as a reliable contributor. Here are his strategies for achieving this:
1. Routine Development
Establishing a game-day routine that includes:
- Warm-up exercises to minimize injury risk.
- Pre-game shooting drills to develop muscle memory.
2. Feedback and Adaptation
Utilizing feedback from coaches and teammates will help Hayes adapt his game. This involves:
- Regular film analysis sessions to identify areas for improvement.
- Implementing advice and strategies discussed with coaching staff.
3. Building Confidence
Confidence plays a significant role in a player’s performance. Hayes can boost his confidence by:
- Setting achievable short-term goals throughout the season.
- Engaging in positive self-talk and visualization techniques.
Potential Impact on the Lakers
Jaxson Hayes’ performance this season will have significant implications for the Lakers. A successful season for him can lead to:
1. Improved Team Performance
Hayes’ rebounding and consistency could translate into more possessions for the Lakers, enhancing scoring opportunities and overall team performance.
2. Deeper Playoff Run
If Hayes can deliver on his potential, it could bolster the Lakers’ chances of making a deeper run in the playoffs, especially by providing the team with a strong inside presence.
3. Personal Growth and Development
Success this season could solidify Hayes’ role in the NBA and provide opportunities for future contracts and endorsements, ultimately shaping his long-term career trajectory.
Statistical Goals for the Season
Setting statistical goals can help Hayes focus on measurable outcomes. Some key targets could include:
| Category | Goal |
|---|---|
| Points per Game | 12 |
| Rebounds per Game | 8 |
| Blocks per Game | 1.5 |
| Field Goal Percentage | 50% |
Benefits of a Breakout Season for Jaxson Hayes
A breakout season could yield numerous benefits for Hayes, including:
- Career Advancement: Elevating his status within the league and opening doors for future opportunities.
- Increased Visibility: Gaining recognition as a key player can lead to endorsements and partnerships.
- Team Loyalty: Establishing a strong rapport with the Lakers and their fans, which can have long-term benefits for his career.
Conclusion
As Jaxson Hayes prepares for the upcoming NBA season with the Los Angeles Lakers, his focus on rebounding and consistency is clear. With the right mindset, training, and strategies, he is poised to have a significant impact on his team and his own career. The basketball community is eager to see how this young talent will evolve and contribute in the 2024 season.
