When the Los Angeles Lakers signed Jackson Hayes at the start of free agency, some fans wondered how he would fit within Darvin Ham’s schemes.
Most expected him to be a backup center behind Anthony Davis.
But NBA insider Dave McMenamin thinks his role could be much bigger.
Speaking to Zack Lowe on his show, McMenamin said Hayes could be a starter:
“I wouldn’t be shocked if we see Jackson Hayes at the starting center at the start of the season, to see how that looks. But that doesn’t mean you won’t see Anthony Davis playing center in the fourth quarter. It’s time to win.”
In some ways, this idea is very surprising.
In other ways, it really isn’t.
Hayes certainly has yet to prove himself during his tenure with the New Orleans Pelicans.
During his four years, he averaged 7.5 points and 4 rebounds and played over 19 minutes per game during only one season.
He has started in a few games but it is not a common occurrence.
At the same time, Davis has long made it clear that he does not want to be the Lakers’ center and is more comfortable as a power forward.
If Hayes started the game, it would give him more experience and allow Davis to play the position he prefers.
Of course, if this proposed new lineup doesn’t work out well, you can bet that Hamm will quickly change his approach and force Davis to be the big man again.
McMenamin admits this is all speculation and no definite plans have yet been made regarding Hayes.
The Lakers went a long way in the offseason and acquired a lot of talent.
Now they just have to figure out how they’re going to use it.
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