The Los Angeles Lakers’ frontcourt situation, particularly at center, remains a key point of discussion as they navigate their playoff series. Despite starting Jaxson Hayes in the first three games, head coach JJ Redick has largely opted for smaller lineups, limiting Hayes’s minutes (under nine per game). This is due to Redick’s preference for spreading out the Minnesota Timberwolves’ defense, a strategy that has seen Dorian Finney-Smith take on a more prominent role.
Jaxson Hayes Will Start For the Los Angeles Lakers In the Timberwolves Game 4
As Dan Woike of the Los Angeles Times reported, “JJ Redick says the Lakers will start Jaxson Hayes.”As they now trail 2-1 in the series, Redick faces a decision regarding Hayes’s role moving forward. While acknowledging Hayes’s value and contributions during the regular season, Redick has indicated he will evaluate all options to help the Lakers regain control of the series, as reported by Jovan Buha of The Athletic.
Hayes’s limitations as a player are apparent, and the smaller lineups, featuring Finney-Smith, Jarred Vanderbilt, and Rui Hachimura, have been Redick’s preferred approach. While Wolves wing Jaden McDaniels recognizes the value of having Hayes on the floor, especially against a physical team, this series may not be the optimal matchup for him to make a significant impact.
Looking ahead, they will undoubtedly seek to address the center position in the offseason. However, for this series, Redick must determine whether to continue including Hayes in the rotation or fully commit to a smaller, more versatile lineup and trust his other forwards to handle the interior responsibilities.