To put it simply, when the Los Angeles Lakers faced the Minnesota Timberwolves on Sunday night, star Anthony Davis was on another level. No player in history has ever recorded at least five assists and five steals in the same game, making him the eighth player in NBA history to record at least 25 points and 25 rebounds in one outing.
During the Lakers’ 11-point triumph, Davis totaled 27 points, 25 rebounds, five assists, seven steals, and three blocks. Big man Jaxson Hayes couldn’t believe he was seeing such sheer supremacy.
The man had 27 and 25. In reaction to Davis’ historic evening, Hayes remarked, “That’s saying something.” That’s thirty and thirty, and I’ve never even come close to reaching twenty-five boards. He simply has such impeccable timing and a deep understanding of the game. He can therefore go contest and return to the rebound since he knows exactly where it will be. I’ve attempted to learn from him and have kind of stolen that from him. He’s among the greatest to handle it that way.
Hayes, on the other hand, had a fantastic night playing off the Lakers bench, finishing with nine points and five rebounds while making every field goal. Although the fifth-year big has been playing well lately in his reserve role, he is also making the most of his chance to get knowledge from one of the league’s top big men.
When asked what he has learned most from Davis, Hayes said that his major goal has been to defend without fouling.
Hayes continued, “For me, the non-fouling is just the biggest thing.” “Maintaining my verticality has been the main focus of our efforts since I arrived.
“What he excels at is gaining verticality and then reentering the game to maybe add another block or rebound. I’m trying to work with him on that, just getting my verticality back so I can stay in the action instead of flying back. However, those are small things like his post-work, isos, and middys. I’m just attempting to pick up any small footwork skills I can from him.
Even though Hayes is tall and athletic, he can still be pushed back even when he is participating in the contest. However, if Davis can improve his technique and positioning, Hayes’ game might really advance.
With this Lakers team, Hayes’ position has only grown. Hayes is wise to pick up tips from perhaps the best big man defender in the NBA. It will only keep paying dividends; it is already doing so.