Expert Predicts This New Laker Could Make A Quick Impact In 2023-24

With the preseason games starting, that means that the real matchups are just around the corner! We should be in for another fun year of Los Angeles Lakers basketball, and the team has the look of a real title contender this season.

They have strong depth all over the place, and it should allow for much-needed flexibility throughout the year. But there is one player that could make a big impact on this team that many people are even thinking about. That would be center Jaxson Hayes, especially if he continues to perform well.

Hayes was brought in to help Anthony Davis along the front lines for this team, but his upside is what could see him get significant minutes. He is a rim-running, lob threat for the Lakers, and that could be just what they need this year.

“While people are pretty unanimous on Max Christie’s potential as a rotation player this season, don’t count out the impact Jaxson Hayes could make in a role off the team’s bench. His energy in the opener as a screener and rim-runner — basically a player who sets a pick and dives with force toward the basket — opened up a lot of stuff for the Lakers offense, with the team’s guards excited to play with such an explosive athlete.”

Per Dan Wokie of The LA Times

Hayes doesn’t need to do much within this Lakers system to make a big impact either. All he needs to do is grab rebounds, play some defense and catch some lobs on offense. He could end up playing a big role for this team, similar to what JaVale McGee did for LA in 2020.

“When he signed with the Lakers, some league insiders felt like the Lakers’ best passers would really unlock Hayes’ game. Like a lot of players on minimum deals, consistency, both in performance and opportunity, will be crucial. But he looked like a player who could maybe matter in the Lakers’ first live basketball action.”

Per Dan Woike of The LA Times

If Hayes can buy in this year, it could be great for his future. He could really boost his value around the league, and that could help him land a bigger contract down the line.

The big man could end up being one of the more valuable members to this Lakers team this season, and the hope is that he continues to get better as the season progresses.

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