The Los Angeles Lakers will face the Minnesota Timberwolves on Friday in the opening week of the 2025-26 NBA season in a rematch of the 2025 Western Conference First Round matchup. The Lakers are heading into the matchup after a 109-119 loss to the Golden State Warriors on opening night. Meanwhile, the Timberwolves picked up a comeback 118-114 win over the Portland Trail Blazers last night.
While the Timberwolves enter this game on a high note, the Lakers find themselves in a tough spot. They are already without All-NBA forward LeBron James, who’s missed the start of preseason with sciatica on his right side.
The Lakers missed James’ production in their opening night loss while Luka Doncic excelled with a 43-point (17-27 FG), 12 rebounds and nine assists performance. Now, it seems Doncic will potentially miss the presence of another one of his teammates for tonight’s clash. ESPN’s Dave McMenamin has revealed that the Lakers have officially listed backup center Jaxson Hayes as questionable.
“Jaxson Hayes is questionable for tonight vs. MIN with left knee soreness, the Lakers say.”
Hayes put up four points and six rebounds in the Lakers’ opening night loss. He averaged 6.8 points and 4.8 rebounds last season with the franchise. He’s considered highly compatible with Doncic due to his pick-and-roll prowess and ability to finish in transition.
The Lakers are currently adjusting to Deandre Ayton as their starting center, so Hayes provided a safe option who has chemistry with Doncic. With Maxi Kleber also listed to be out with injury, the only backup for Ayton is likely two-way center Christian Koloko. Jarred Vanderbilt could play as a small-ball center if Ayton or Koloko struggle in that role, but the Lakers will be hoping that Hayes is able to participate in an important matchup for the Lakers.
