Overview

• Hayes told reporters he is working on obtaining a Slovenian passport with hopes of playing alongside Dončić next summer.
• The Slovenian Basketball Federation confirmed it is exploring the addition of a naturalized center but has not named a candidate or set a timeline.
• NBA reporter Marc Stein noted Hayes would occupy Slovenia’s lone naturalized-player slot if his citizenship is approved under FIBA rules.
• The 25-year-old enters his first full season as Dončić’s Lakers teammate and posted a preseason double-double on October 15 as Deandre Ayton was held out.
• Hayes is in a contract year and scheduled to become an unrestricted free agent after the season, providing added context to his international pursuit.