3 takeaways from the Pelicans’ blowout win over the Lakers

Jaxson Hayes running the floor for the Pelicans

Jaxson Hayes had a solid all-around game for the Pelicans last night and is starting to find his way in the starting lineup.

I thought Hayes was a big part of the Pels’ early success even when he didn’t score, as he was running the floor hard and forcing the Lakers into some tough defensive assignments.

When Hayes had one of the Lakers’ bigs on him he was simply trying to beat him down the floor, and when he had the smaller Ariza on him, Hayes got to his spot early and sealed Ariza, opening up driving lanes for Ingram, McCollum and Herb Jones in transition.

Hayes is at his best when he plays with energy and his athleticism is a weapon for the Pelicans in transition, whether he is catching a lob or drawing the attention of the shot blockers.

Hayes was active on both ends last night and is finally finding some consistency after an up and down season.

Hayes can be the X-factor for New Orleans as they push for the play-in tournament.