Lakers’ Jaxson Hayes Apologizes for Shoving Wizards Mascot
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Los Angeles — Lakers reserve center Jaxson Hayes publicly apologized on Saturday after serving a one-game suspension for shoving the Washington Wizards’ mascot to the floor before the clubs met on Friday, Jan. 30.
Hayes acknowledged fault for the incident, explaining that he was stretching when the mascot stepped on his foot.
I obviously apologize to the team, the mascot,
Hayes said. We all try to get ourselves in the mental space and physical space to play a game and when I’m stretching and someone steps on my foot, I might’ve lost it. I should’ve handled it a different way. You live and you learn.
The 6-foot-11 big man missed one contest as punishment, consistent with the NBA’s stricter policy on interactions between players and non-players that has been in place since the 2004 “Malice at the Palace.” Head coach JJ Redick described the shove as a mistake and framed the suspension as a learning opportunity.
Maxi Kleber Fills In
With Hayes sidelined, forward Maxi Kleber logged 26 minutes in the Lakers’ 119-115 comeback win, finishing with four points, four rebounds, four assists and three steals. His plus-23 was the best mark on the team.
Kleber said he stays prepared by keeping a consistent routine. I think the one thing that you always can do is just support and be there for your teammates,
he noted. When you do your work you’re always prepared whenever you’re thrown in there.
Hayes has rejoined the active roster as Los Angeles continues its road trip.
Source: Lakers Nation
