Lakers big man Jaxson Hayes has been suspended for one game for pushing the Wizards mascot before Friday’s win at Washington.
The league announced Hayes’ punishment on Wednesday.
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The incident occurred during pregame introductions when the Wizards mascot, G-Wiz, ran off the field during player introductions. As he approaches the Lakers bench, Hayes does his level best to drop his shoulder into the much shorter mascot.
While the video cuts outIt appears the mascot was lifted off his feet and punched toward members of the Wizards dance team, who ran to the ground.
Hayes will serve his suspension Thursday against the Philadelphia 76ers, when the Lakers kick off their eight-game homestand sandwiched around All-Star weekend (Feb. 13-15).
This isn’t the first time Hayes has gotten into trouble.
In July 2021, Los Angeles police were called to Hayes’ home by his then-girlfriend’s cousin, Sofia Jamora, during a domestic dispute.
When police arrived, bodycam footage showed Hayes having a physical altercation with an officer, wrestling and pushing him. Hayes would later pay the officer $150,000 to cover his injuries, according to a statement from the officer.
Hayes was eventually charged with twelve felonies in Los Angeles County, and was ultimately sentenced to three years’ probation, required to perform community service and take domestic violence classes.
The NBA has chosen not to suspend, fine or take disciplinary action against Hayes following the incident.
The 7-foot Hayes will participate in the Dunk Contest during All-Star weekend.
Hayes averaged 6.4 points (77.5% shooting) and 3.8 rebounds in 41 games in 2025-26.
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