Overview
- Hayes left the preseason finale against the Kings with a right wrist contusion and was ruled out for the second half.
- Head coach JJ Redick said postgame that initial X-rays were negative and the team will provide further evaluation on Sunday.
- Redick noted the injury occurred on a first-half alley-oop dunk when Hayes caught a lob from Luka Doncic and was fouled.
- With Hayes serving as Deandre Ayton’s primary backup, his uncertainty tightens Los Angeles’ center depth and could mean heavier minutes for Ayton.
- In Hayes’ absence, the Lakers turned to Maxi Kleber in relief, and the setback comes after Hayes’ strong preseason that included a 12-point, 10-rebound, 4-assist performance versus Dallas.