The Los Angeles Lakers are the hottest team in the NBA. They have won eight straight and are currently in 2nd place in the Western Conference. The buzz around this team, LeBron James, and Luka Doncic is palpable.
Tonight, they will face the 2nd place Boston Celtics in a matchup that has been highly anticipated for weeks. It is the first time since 1985 that both teams will meet 50+ games into the season when both teams are Top 2 in their conference.
However, the Lakers will most likely be without their starting center. They just announced that Jaxson Hayes has been downgraded to doubtful with a right knee contusion.
Jaxson Hayes (right knee contusion) has been downgraded to doubtful for tonight’s game vs. Boston, per the Lakers.
— Jovan Buha (@jovanbuha) March 8, 2025
Los Angeles Lakers Will Be Without Jaxson Hayes Vs Boston Celtics
While Luka Doncic and LeBron James have been dominating the headlines, Hayes has been a big part of the Lakers’ recent success. While he is not lighting up the stat sheet, during the eight-game winning streak, Hayes is averaging 8.6 PPG, 6.1 REBs, and 25.4 minutes. However, he has been a tremendous asset defensively.
Jarred Vanderbilt will likely play the role of center in a smaller lineup. Also, expect Trey Jemison III to get more minutes as his 6’10 frame can bring more size to the rotation.
The Celtics are nearly as hot, having won 13 of their last 16 games. The rivalry never left, but this game feels like the biggest one in years. It will also be the first time that Doncic gets a taste of the historic battle. The tip-off is set for 5:30 PM PT on ABC.
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