Jaxson Hayes returns to on-court work, rehab remains on track
Lakers coach JJ Redick gave a positive update on Jaxson Hayes as he returned to on-court work and remains on track to return within two weeks.
While so many injury updates in recent years have been about players having setbacks or not near a return, JJ Redick bucked that trend on Tuesday.
Jaxson Hayes, who sprained his ankle prior to the Lakers’ brief recent road trip, returned to on-court work in recent days and remains on track to return within the 1-2 week timeline provided.
JJ Redick says Jaxson Hayes has returned to on-court activity since tweaking his ankle a week ago. The Lakers originally provided a 1-2 week recovery window for Hayes, which Redick says Hayes is expected to meet
— Dave McMenamin (@mcten) November 20, 2024
The Lakers are already dealing with a lot of injuries. Notably, Christian Wood had a recent setback from a second knee surgery this year and his return is still at least a month away while Jarred Vanderbilt has yet to play while he rehabs from offseason foot surgery.
So, hearing that Hayes should return during the original timeline given is rare for a Lakers player but certainly a welcomed change. With Hayes out, the Lakers have been using Christian Koloko more and he's performed well in his absence.
Still, in ten games this season, Hayes is averaging 6.3 points and 4.6 rebounds for Los Angeles and his rebounding numbers are at career highs.
If he does, in fact, return after two weeks out, Hayes' first game back could be on Nov. 29 when the Lakers take on the Oklahoma City Thunder.
Until he is officially back, expect more Koloko and even Armel Traore to get some run while the team tries to stay afloat until his ankle fully heals and he makes his return for regular-season action.
You can follow Edwin on Twitter at @ECreates88.