New Orleans Pelicans: Jaxson Hayes is showing star potential

New Orleans Pelicans: What can Jaxson Hayes be?

Hayes’ development cannot be understated. Within a few months, he has gone from a bench warmer to a key cog. The flashes he previously showed are now stretches of consistent play. Most importantly, his defense continues to improve and excel.

Although his offense is drastically better, there is no doubt Hayes will gain notoriety through becoming a lockdown defender. The size, length, and athleticism are there, but now the skill and understanding are catching up.

Only three months ago, I was certain the New Orleans Pelicans should trade Hayes. Now I firmly believe he is indispensable. The road map to becoming a better version of Clint Capela or similar to Myles Turner is there. It seems like he has the raw skills of both guys before they were refined.

The rebounding does need to improve, and there are certain aspects of his game that remind me so much of Willie Cauley-Stein and young Javale McGee. However, it seems like the situation and tutelage from Steven Adams will only bring the best out of him.

Do I think he can become a star? Potentially. To become one, he will have to hit the defensive heights of Rudy Gobert. If not, I can easily see him becoming a top ten center in the league and being the third option on a title team for a franchise like New Orleans that is banking on this young talent to move with Williamson and Brandon Ingram.

New Orleans’ core is developing at its own rate but is flashing signs of greatness. Hayes’ rollercoaster sophomore year brought plenty of anguish, but as he turns the corner, Hayes can be the New Orleans Pelicans’ next star.