The Los Angeles Lakers need a center. Ivica Zubac was playing well, but the front office inexplicably traded him away in exchange for Mike Muscala. JaVale McGee has been better than expected, but he is their only true center outside of the 36-year-old Tyson Chandler.
Jaxson Hayes could make an immediate impact as a rim protector and lob target. He is 6′ 11″ with a 7′ 4″ wingspan and great athleticism. He is averaging 2.3 blocks in 23.2 minutes per game. He is making 74.5% of his field goal attempts which is due primarily to his shot selection.
Hayes is still very raw offensively. His 73.4% free throw shooting signifies shooting potential down the line. He is not a good passer or ball handler, but teams will attempt to develop Hayes in the DeAndre Jordan or Clint Capela mold.
For a team attempting to compete now with a young developing core, this is a solid selection. Hayes can be part of the rotation early on, while still offering long term upside.