Lakers' 7-foot breakout star boosts title hopes

Jaxson Hayes' recent dominant play could be the X-factor for LA's championship pursuit.

Mar. 31, 2026 at 7:22pm

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An extreme close-up of a 7-foot basketball player in mid-dunk, with vibrant neon brushstrokes capturing the raw power and energy of the moment.Jaxson Hayes' recent dominant play has provided a much-needed boost to the Lakers' championship aspirations.Los Angeles Today

The Los Angeles Lakers are expected to contend for an NBA title this season, but an unexpected 7-foot breakout star has emerged as a key factor in their pursuit. Jaxson Hayes, the team's young center, has put up impressive stats in his last four games, including a 21-point, 10-rebound performance. If Hayes can sustain this level of play, the Lakers' chances of winning a championship get a significant boost.

Why it matters

The Lakers have always been a championship contender, but they've lacked consistent production from the center position. Hayes' recent breakout could provide the team with the rim protection, rebounding, and efficient scoring they need to take their title chances to the next level.

The details

In his last four games, Hayes has averaged 15.3 points, 7.0 rebounds, 3.3 blocks, and 1.8 steals per game while shooting an impressive 78.3% from the field. This outburst has come with and without the presence of starting center Deandre Ayton, indicating Hayes' ability to impact the game regardless of the lineup.

  • Over the last four games, from March 27 to March 31, 2026.

The players

Jaxson Hayes

A 7-foot center for the Los Angeles Lakers who was the 8th overall pick in the 2019 NBA Draft. He has recently emerged as a dominant force, putting up impressive stats in his last four games.

Luka Doncic

The superstar point guard for the Los Angeles Lakers who, along with LeBron James and Austin Reaves, forms the team's core.

LeBron James

The legendary forward for the Los Angeles Lakers who, along with Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves, forms the team's core.

Austin Reaves

The versatile guard for the Los Angeles Lakers who, along with Luka Doncic and LeBron James, forms the team's core.

Deandre Ayton

The starting center for the Los Angeles Lakers who has missed some games during Jaxson Hayes' recent dominant stretch.

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What’s next

The Lakers will look to continue to feature Jaxson Hayes and capitalize on his recent dominant play as they push for an NBA championship.

The takeaway

Jaxson Hayes' unexpected breakout performance could be the key to the Lakers' championship aspirations this season. If he can sustain this level of play, the Lakers will have a formidable center duo with Deandre Ayton, providing the team with the interior presence they need to compete for a title.