Luka Doncic stepped up for the LA Lakers with 33 points as they ended their four game losing streak to secure a 107-96 win against the Phoenix Suns.
He also grabbed 11 rebounds and had eight assists on the night to lead the team to a win in the absence of LeBron James.
Doncic was still putting up great numbers, including a 45-point game against the Milwaukee Bucks, but his scoring was not helping the team get wins.
Lakers center Jaxson Hayes returned from injury after a four game absence and he proved to be the missing piece that helped them get over the line.
Doncic shared some appreciation towards Hayes on his 19-point game in the win against the Suns.
Luka Doncic has been a player who has thrived with a lob threat on his team and that is exactly what Hayes is.
In his absence, the team were missing a player who could catch lobs and also contribute on the defensive end with his energy.
Speaking on Hayes in his post-game press conference, Doncic said: “You can see the difference for me, he helps me a lot, but he helps the whole team.
“Getting blocked shots, big rebounds, roll he can do a lot of things.
“We missed him for sure.”
Hayes has been a key part of JJ Reddick’s team in their improved performances in 2025.
He has averaged 6.7 points per game, but is shooting at a highly efficient 72% from the field.
Already playing without James, the team seemed to struggle offensively and to make matters worse, Hayes was ruled out due to a knee injury.
But Hayes returned back with a big performance and proved he was a vital piece on the roster.
Speaking about how difficult it was to sit out, Hayes said: “It’s always hard watching your brothers go to battle and you got to sit there on the sidelines or at home and watch them,
“So that one always hurts. But I’m just happy to be back with the guys and happy to get this win tonight.”
Hayes was also praised by his head coach for his performances who stated his ‘cognitive load’ was his biggest improvement this season.
After last season, it seemed like Hayes’ stint with the Lakers would end in a similar way his time with the New Orleans Pelicans came to an end.
However, he has shown great improvement and with Doncic now on the team, Hayes is able to make a big impact on the way the Lakers play.
