New Orleans Pelicans Summer League Grades
The New Orleans Pelicans gave Jaxson Hayes and Kavell Bigby-Williams all the minutes they could handle. Both showed they have lots of useful potential skills but need time to develop.
Jaxson Hayes had one big highlight but also a double-double night against Miami, posting 15 points and 12 rebounds. Jaxson Hayes can also hit three-point shots. In fact, his jumper from the elbow and wing three-point form looks better than Zion Williamson’s technique.
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Hayes won the battle over Daniel Gafford, scoring 28 points, grabbing four rebounds, and blocking three shots. Hayes was 10-15 from the field but did commit five fouls.
However, Hayes weighs less than some guards. Establishing a position on the low block will be difficult until he can leverage some muscle into his game. Hayes has a feel for the game, so he will score his fair share of putbacks attempts and find his dump off dunks cuts.
His rim rolling and dunk technique is on point, and on a highlight reel loop. He showed the quickness to defend the perimeter. He can time his blocks, even if he does chase an attempt or two for no reason.
Those bad habits are inherent in all teenaged big men. Hayes has been used to dominating the competition at the rim. He shot over 86% at the rime while at the University of Texas, and the Big 12 is no slouch conference.
Hayes must be forgiven for thinking he can get to every shot. With his length, he has been able to his whole career. Now he will learn the rebounding game. Hayes had an almost flawless summer. His flaws though, leave him behind Jahlil Okafor on the depth chart to begin the season. Jaxson Hayes SUMMER GRADE: B+