Overview

• At media day, Hayes confirmed he put on 20 pounds over the summer.
• He said the gain came through a team-guided program with the strength coach, his chef, and his nutritionist, focusing on healthy weight.
• Hayes framed the added mass as a way to hold up better on the glass and in post defense without sacrificing athleticism.
• He had been listed around 220 pounds at seven feet and drew criticism for lacking the strength to consistently box out, issues that were exposed in the first round.
• With Deandre Ayton signed as the new starting center, Hayes returns to a backup role expected to provide meaningful minutes.