New Orleans Pelicans: Is Jaxson Hayes Underrated? He Thinks So

The New Orleans Pelicans’ Jaxson Hayes has a chip on his shoulder and something to prove after being overlooked for the 2020 Rising Stars Challenge.

The New Orleans Pelicans hope Jaxson Hayes is angry. Anger can be a primary motivator, especially for young players who want to make a name for themselves in the NBA.

Jaxson Hayes is known for a couple of things right now, his highlight-reel dunks, and his not-safe-for-work YouTube rant after he wasn’t selected for the 2020 NBA Rising Stars Challenge.

Let’s take a look at the highlights (of a dunk, not the rant).

Fans of Jaxson Hayes and the New Orleans Pelicans agreed he should have made it, but not making it could add just a little extra motivation to his offseason workouts.

Recently Jaxson Hayes did a short interview for “Off the Court” with Jim Eichenhofer, a series in which New Orleans Pelicans’ players answer all sorts of questions.

Hayes talked about the famous food of New Orleans, his first job, his favorite musical artist (Future, ugh) and even his favorite Christmas memory.

But one of the most interesting answers Jaxson Hayes gave was when he was asked who he felt was the most underrated player in the NBA. Hayes simply replied:

"“Me, for sure.”"

We assume Jaxson Hayes was being a bit cheeky with this answer, but there is truth in every joke, so it appears that he might not be over that Rising Stars snub.

Though he started racking up the DNP’s before the hiatus, Jaxson Hayes figures to be a big part of the New Orleans Pelicans’ future.

Not only has he flashed high-ceiling ability, but he is just 19-years-old and signed to a team-friendly contract through the 2022-23 season.

If Hayes can give the New Orleans Pelicans cheap production on that contract, he will be one of the most valuable bigs in the NBA and allow the Pelicans to invest resources in other positions.

With most teams going away from high-priced centers, Jaxson Hayes’ development is crucial for the Pelicans future, whether he is on the team or part of a trade package.

That’s why the New Orleans Pelicans hope Hayes can use that chip on his shoulder to motivate himself in the offseason, when he needs to put on strength and develop more of a shot.

Whether Jaxson Hayes is the most underrated player in the NBA is arguable (we’d give that nod to teammate Jrue Holiday) but what isn’t arguable is his value to the New Orleans Pelicans as a player or asset.

We at Pelican Debrief are committed to bringing you coverage of the New Orleans Pelicans during the hiatus.

We appreciate our readers and hope you are all staying safe out there!