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3w ago

NBA Suspends Lakers’ Jaxson Hayes One Game for Mascot Shove as Coach Notes Apology

The reserve center missed Thursday’s game against the 76ers and is expected to return Saturday against the Warriors.

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Lakers' Jaxson Hayes suspended 1 game by NBA for pushing mascot
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CLEVELAND, OHIO - JANUARY 28: LeBron James #23 is helped to his feet by teammates Gabe Vincent #7 Jaxson Hayes #11 and Drew Timme #17 of the Los Angeles Lakers during the fourth quarter against the Cleveland Cavaliers at Rocket Arena on January 28, 2026 in Cleveland, Ohio. The Cavaliers defeated the Lakers 129-99. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Jason Miller/Getty Images)

Overview

  • The league said Hayes was penalized for pushing the Wizards’ mascot during Jan. 30 pregame introductions at Capital One Arena, an announcement issued by NBA executive James Jones.
  • Video shows G-Wiz carrying a large flag as Hayes made contact, sending the mascot into a cheerleader; The Athletic reported the mascot was not injured.
  • Hayes served the one-game, without-pay suspension on Feb. 5, with the Lakers covering backup center minutes through Maxi Kleber, Drew Timme, or small-ball looks.
  • Lakers head coach JJ Redick called it an error in judgment and said Hayes has apologized, adding he hopes the episode serves as a learning opportunity.
  • The 25-year-old averages 6.4 points and 3.8 rebounds and is slated for the All-Star Dunk Contest, as some coverage revisited his 2021 legal case in assessing the league’s response.