TITLE: Lakers List Jaxson Hayes as Day-to-Day After Right Ankle Bruise
SLUG: lakers-jaxson-hayes-day-to-day-ankle-bruise
CONTENT:
The Los Angeles Lakers have classified backup center Jaxson Hayes as day-to-day after imaging revealed a bruise on his right ankle, head coach JJ Redick said Monday.
Hayes exited Sunday’s game against the Boston Celtics after logging just five minutes in the first half at Crypto.com Arena. He did not return for the second half.
According to Redick, the 26-year-old underwent tests Monday that showed “a little bruise.” The coach expects Hayes to be listed as questionable for Tuesday’s home matchup with the Orlando Magic, ESPN’s Dave McMenamin reported on X.
Hayes is enjoying the most productive season of his career, serving as the primary reserve behind starting center Deandre Ayton. His absence forced the Lakers to extend Ayton’s minutes against Boston and experiment with small-ball lineups featuring LeBron James or Jarred Vanderbilt at center.
Los Angeles has limited depth in the frontcourt behind Ayton. Maxi Kleber saw spot minutes before the All-Star break but has seldom played since the roster returned to near full strength.
Slam Dunk Contest Appearance Likely One-Off
Hayes represented the Lakers in the 2026 NBA Slam Dunk Contest during All-Star Weekend but failed to advance past the opening round. After feeling discomfort in his knees on his first dunk attempt, he indicated he is unlikely to participate in the event again.
Los Angeles enters Tuesday’s game needing every healthy body as it battles for position in the Western Conference standings. Hayes’s status will be updated on the team’s official injury report.
Source: LakersNation.com
