The Los Angeles Lakers have faced challenging questions throughout the 2025 NBA playoffs, but one question keeps resurfacing among fans: Why is Jaxson Hayes not playing? As the only true center left on the Lakers’ rotation following key roster changes, Hayes’ absence during crucial moments has sparked much debate. Let’s break down the reasons behind this surprising lineup decision and what it means for the Lakers’ playoff future.

The Postseason Problem: Lack of Size and Rim Protection

Following the mid-season trade of Anthony Davis, the Lakers lost their best rim protector. According to the Los Angeles Times, the absence of a reliable big man has become a glaring issue. Despite Hayes' height advantage, Lakers head coach JJ Redick has limited his minutes, with Hayes logging just 8 to 9 minutes in the first three games of the playoff series against the Minnesota Timberwolves. During Game 3, the Timberwolves outscored the Lakers 56-26 in the paint, exposing defensive vulnerabilities that Hayes was unable to cover effectively.

Coaching Decisions: Redick’s Shifting Strategy

JJ Redick has hinted at significant changes to the starting lineup after repeated playoff losses. Yahoo Sports reports that Hayes’ playing time has been slashed as the Lakers search for a balance between size and defensive agility. Redick believes that while Hayes’ size offers some defensive help, the overall lack of depth at the center position has left the team scrambling. The result? Hayes is being moved to the bench more frequently as Redick experiments with smaller, faster rotations to counter aggressive opponents.

Performance Concerns: Fouls and Confidence

Performance has also played a role in answering why is Jaxson Hayes not playing. As highlighted by NBA analyst Kendrick Perkins, Hayes only played four minutes in Game 4 before being pulled after picking up two early fouls. This trend of quick fouls and low scoring has shaken the coaching staff’s trust. Perkins notes that losing confidence from your coach can be difficult to overcome and mentally taxing for players like Hayes.

Roster Limitations and Missed Opportunities

The Lakers had attempted to address their size issue by pursuing other centers before the trade deadline. However, failed deals and injuries have left Hayes as the sole large body in the paint, which, according to the Los Angeles Times article, has forced the Lakers to make difficult choices. Rather than leaning on Hayes, Redick is opting for more dynamic defenders and hoping that their speed can offset the size disadvantage.

What’s Next for Jaxson Hayes and the Lakers?

As the playoff series continues, fan speculation around why is Jaxson Hayes not playing will persist. With the Lakers down 3-1 in the series and facing elimination, it remains to be seen if Hayes can regain his spot in the rotation. For now, coaching decisions, on-court performance, and a lack of trust seem to leave Jaxson Hayes watching from the sidelines.

If you want deeper insights into the Lakers' strategic shift and playoff struggles, these resources provide valuable background:

• Timberwolves expose Lakers' biggest vulnerability during Game 3 - Los Angeles Times
• JJ Redick hinted at a major change to his starting lineup after Game 3 - Yahoo Sports
• Kendrick Perkins says Jaxson Hayes now has new problem with LA Lakers

In summary, the answer to why is Jaxson Hayes not playing involves a mix of strategic shifts, performance issues, and roster challenges. Lakers fans will be watching closely to see if this trend continues in crucial playoff games.