The Los Angeles Lakers' postseason journey has placed a spotlight on Jaxson Hayes and his position within the team's rotation. As the playoffs unfold, questions over Hayes' effectiveness and future are emerging. In this analysis, we delve into the center's impact, how coaching decisions are shaping his role, and what the Lakers might do next.

Jaxson Hayes in action against the Timberwolves during the NBA Playoffs.

Jaxson Hayes’ Role in the Playoffs

Jaxson Hayes entered the 2025 NBA Playoffs as the Lakers’ primary center. On paper, his presence seemed crucial, especially with the Minnesota Timberwolves fielding dominant paint threats. However, reality has been different. Hayes has started every game in the series but has seen his minutes decrease sharply. In fact, he has yet to log double-digit minutes in a single playoff contest this year.

The Lakers have struggled defensively and offensively with Hayes on the floor. As noted in a CBS Sports analysis, Los Angeles has been outscored by 18 points during Hayes' limited time on the court against Minnesota. The team’s frontcourt depth is thin, making the situation challenging for both Hayes and head coach JJ Redick.

Coaching Decisions and Rotational Changes

Head coach JJ Redick has been vocal about evaluating every option in the Lakers' lineup. After a tough Game 3 loss, the possibility of benching Jaxson Hayes gained traction. Redick, however, emphasized that the team "still believes in Jaxson" but remains open to all adjustments to maximize the Lakers’ chances. This approach is discussed in more detail in a recent Lakers Nation report, which details the coach’s thoughts following consecutive underwhelming performances from Hayes.

Redick’s preference has leaned toward smaller, versatile lineups—often replacing Hayes with Dorian Finney-Smith. This switch is intended to create more space on offense and address defensive mismatches. Still, the lack of another true center has made the decision a difficult balancing act for the coaching staff.

Should the Lakers Move On from Hayes in This Series?

With the Lakers now trailing 2-1 in the playoff series, analysts and fans alike are debating whether it is time to move Hayes out of the starting lineup entirely. Silver Screen and Roll offers a detailed look at the arguments for and against keeping him in the rotation. The consensus is that while Hayes contributed significantly during the regular season, the playoffs—especially this matchup—highlight some of his limitations.

Players like Dorian Finney-Smith and Jarred Vanderbilt have stepped up in small-ball settings, offering defensive energy and flexibility that Hayes has struggled to match. The coaching staff now faces a pivotal decision: stick with tradition or fully embrace a smaller, more dynamic lineup.

Looking Ahead: What’s Next for Jaxson Hayes?

No matter what Redick and the Lakers decide for Game 4 and beyond, it’s clear Jaxson Hayes is at a crossroads. He still has the trust of parts of the coaching staff and his teammates, but immediate results in the postseason are what matter most. Offseason discussions will likely focus on bolstering the Lakers' center position, as this series has illuminated the team's frontcourt vulnerabilities.

For now, the focus remains on adapting, maximizing the current roster, and seeing if Hayes can carve out a role that benefits both him and the Lakers when it matters most.

Conclusion

Jaxson Hayes’ journey with the Los Angeles Lakers is in a defining moment. His playoff struggles and reduced minutes have sparked honest discussions both inside and outside the organization. As the series continues, all eyes will be on the coaching staff and whether a critical lineup change is in the cards for Game 4. No matter the outcome, this situation serves as a powerful reminder of how matchups and adjustments define NBA postseason success.

For more insights on the Lakers’ playoff rotations and expert opinions on Jaxson Hayes, check out this detailed breakdown and the latest updates from Lakers Nation.