New Orleans Pelicans: Taking a deeper look at Jaxson Hayes

With the 8th overall selection in the 2019 NBA Draft, the New Orleans Pelicans selected Jaxson Hayes out of Texas. Let’s tap into what his potential might look like.

The way basketball is played has completely altered over the past decade, the three-point revolution is in full effect. The center position in the eyes of many has seemingly become obsolete due to the necessity of spacing out the floor, which makes the New Orleans Pelicans’ draft pick moderately controversial. Hayes didn’t put up a single three-point attempt in his freshman year, so how will he find success at the NBA level?

Well, for one, he fits the type of style of play that Alvin Gentry wants to implement entering next season. He’s insanely athletic, his activity on the defensive end will lead out to transition opportunities, and he’s an adept rim-runner.

Hayes compiled 2.2 blocks per game as a freshman, with a block percentage of 9.6 percent. Likewise, he had a net rating of +45.7, a stat that is even more so impressive when you take into consideration Texas’ 21-16 record for the 2018-19 season. His influence on the game is significant, even without having the presence of a face-up game.

If the shot concerns you and is the end all be all in his worth on the court, I have refreshing news. Hayes shot 74.0 percent from the free throw line, on 3.1 attempts. Which leads me to believe that in his progression he will be able to fade off pick and rolls and knock down 18 footers.

Look at this Pre Draft Workout video, zone in at the (0:37) mark—the stroke looks good. In this interview, he acknowledges he needs to add in perimeter shooting in his offensive arsenal. The kid is 19-years-old, there’s time to develop his game still.

He’s tremendous in the pick and roll, and he’ll have the likes of Jrue Holiday, Lonzo Ball, and even Zion Williamson to run that look with. In fact, Hayes and Williamson could provide a dynamic 4/5 pick and roll—Zion is above average as the ball handler in those situations.

Throw virtually anything around him at the rim and he has the verticality and hands to come down with it. Expect him to be the beneficiary of a high volume of transition dunks and lobs—this team is going to be a lot of fun.

There are going to be growing pains, his block stats are impressive but he’s prone to biting on up-fakes and hesitation moves. As I mentioned, his offensive dynamic needs polishing. But he is a defensive anchor, his length and athleticism make him disruptive for the opposition’s offense, and he’s not one to be easily exposed against perimeter players in open space. Look for him to grow and develop as the season progresses.