NBA Trades: 3 Lakers trade targets after Anthony Davis’ injury

NBA Trades: Los Angeles Lakers trade targets – Jaxson Hayes

Jaxson Hayes is not the first trade target that might come to mind for the Lakers, but the latest news surrounding the New Orleans Pelicans might change that.

Bleacher Report’s Jake Fischer recently stated on the HoopsHype Podcast that Hayes might be available for trade as the big man has fallen out of the Pelicans’ rotation. Hayes is currently putting up career-low numbers across the board, and perhaps the Lakers could be the team to give him an opportunity.

At 21 years old, Hayes has shown signs of potential throughout his first three seasons that he could be an impactful player. His athleticism is off the charts, creating an array of highlight-reel plays on putback dunks and blocked shots over the years.

While he is far from a finished product, playing with the Lakers alongside household players like LeBron James and Russell Westbrook could accelerate his development. Despite his age and inexperience, Hayes would be a solid big man to throw into the rotation with Davis sidelined for the foreseeable future.

Fischer’s reporting made it clear that Hayes is available, and there should be several franchises interested in making a trade. Making $5.4 million this season, Hayes would be an affordable piece for most teams.

For the Lakers, bringing him in would provide some much-needed depth at the center position amidst the injuries that have struck this team. It is unclear what the Pelicans might desire in any return for Hayes, but given that he has become an afterthought in the rotation, it probably wouldn’t break the bank for Los Angeles.