The arrival of Deandre Ayton was designed to solve a major need for the Los Angeles Lakers, and the starting center has delivered with physicality, consistency and near double-double production.
But Ayton has been quick to make one thing clear: his presence has not diminished the importance of fellow big man Jaxson Hayes.
“From the beginning of the year, Jaxson, he’s been doing phenomenal,” Ayton said speaking after practice on Monday. “I told him every time, ‘To be honest you are the best big man I have played alongside with when it comes to holding your own. Yeah, we have different styles of play, but you are a momentum guy.’ The loud thunderous dunks and having the crowd involved and turning up the team, other than me just trying to find a pocket shot.
“He brings the momentum to the team and brings that offense with the pick-and-roll is gonna bring fully. His flying in the sky, even the attempts when he falls down sometimes, just letting teams know that you gotta watch your head. You can’t really ask for much, he’s playing on second effort as well where talent doesn’t even show really he’s just really putting in effort and sacrifice. I always give him his flowers every game just having my back, especially when I can’t play.”
Hayes proved last season that he could handle an expanded role when called upon, and that reliability has carried over even with Ayton entrenched as the starter.
Lakers head coach JJ Redick has also credited Hayes for improving as a passer and decision-maker, adding another layer to his value.
Together, Ayton and Hayes give the Lakers two very different looks at center, but as Ayton made clear, Hayes’ ability to inject energy and momentum remains irreplaceable.
