As the Los Angeles Lakers prepare for the 2024 NBA season, one of the most interesting battles to watch during training camp will be between two young centers, Christian Koloko and Jaxson Hayes. Both players bring unique s𝓀𝒾𝓁𝓁 sets to the table, and with the Lakers looking to solidify their frontcourt depth behind Anthony Davis, this competition could play a critical role in shaping the rotation for the season. So, what will it take for Koloko or Hayes to secure meaningful minutes, and how do they match up against each other?

Christian Koloko: Rim Protection and Defensive Potential

Christian Koloko, a 7-footer with a massive wingspan, is known for his defensive potential. As a shot-blocker and rim protector, Koloko has the ability to alter shots and deter opposing players from attacking the paint. He’s still developing as a player, but his size, mobility, and defensive instincts are exactly what the Lakers could use in their rotation, especially if they need a presence in the paint when Anthony Davis isn’t on the floor.

However, Koloko’s offensive game is still a work in progress. He’s more of a traditional big man who relies on putbacks, alley-oops, and finishes around the rim rather than having a polished post game or perimeter shot. For Koloko to stand out in this battle, he will need to show that he can be a consistent defensive anchor while improving his offensive contributions in pick-and-roll situations.

Jaxson Hayes: Athleticism and Energy

On the other side of this battle is Jaxson Hayes, a high-flying, athletic center who brings energy and explosiveness to the court. Hayes, a former lottery pick, has proven to be an excellent lob threat and a dynamic rim-runner who excels in transition. His verticality and ability to finish above the rim make him a great offensive weapon, particularly in fast-break situations.

Defensively, Hayes has shown flashes of being a solid shot-blocker and rebounder, but he can be inconsistent at times. His athleticism gives him an edge in switching onto smaller players in pick-and-roll situations, but he needs to improve his awareness and positioning to become a more reliable defensive option.

What It Will Take for Each Player to Win the Battle

This battle between Koloko and Hayes is likely to come down to a few key factors:

1. Defensive Reliability: The Lakers’ identity, especially with Anthony Davis leading the way, is built on defense. The player who can demonstrate consistent defensive awareness and rim protection will have a significant edge in this battle. Koloko, with his shot-blocking ability, has the potential to be a more natural rim protector, but Hayes’ athleticism and versatility in switching onto guards could also be valuable.
2. Offensive Impact: While both players have defensive potential, their offensive contributions will also be crucial in determining who gets more minutes. Hayes’ ability to run the floor and finish lobs makes him a more dynamic offensive player, particularly in the fast-paced style the Lakers often utilize with LeBron James. Koloko, on the other hand, will need to show improvement in his finishing around the rim and his ability to function in the pick-and-roll, where he can be a threat as a roll man.
3. Consistency and Basketball IQ: Lakers head coach Darvin Ham will be looking for consistency from both players. While both Koloko and Hayes have shown flashes of their potential, they’ll need to maintain high levels of focus, especially in defensive rotations and decision-making. For Koloko, this means positioning himself effectively as a rim protector and making smart decisions when contesting shots. Hayes will need to show better discipline on defense and a stronger understanding of when to switch and rotate.
4. Rebounding: The Lakers have been vulnerable at times in securing rebounds, particularly when Davis is off the floor. Both Koloko and Hayes will need to prove they can help control the glass. Koloko’s size gives him a natural advantage here, but Hayes’ athleticism and ability to track down rebounds outside his area will also be key.

Potential Roles for Each Player

• Christian Koloko: If Koloko wins the battle, expect him to fill a backup center role, providing rim protection and anchoring the defense in second-unit lineups. His presence could also allow the Lakers to rest Anthony Davis more during the regular season while maintaining a strong defensive identity. Koloko could also be used in matchups against teams with more traditional big men, where his size and shot-blocking would be critical.
• Jaxson Hayes: If Hayes secures the backup center position, his role will likely involve playing alongside the Lakers’ faster units. His ability to run the floor, finish in transition, and be a lob threat fits perfectly with LeBron James’ playmaking style. Additionally, Hayes’ versatility to guard multiple positions could allow him to be used in small-ball lineups when the Lakers want to push the tempo or switch defensively across the board.

The Likely Outcome

Given the Lakers’ focus on defense and their need for size, Koloko’s rim protection could give him the slight edge in this battle. However, Hayes’ athleticism and offensive versatility make him a valuable weapon in certain lineups, and his ability to fit in with faster-paced units could lead to him carving out a consistent role as well.

Ultimately, this battle may not result in a clear winner, as both Koloko and Hayes offer distinct s𝓀𝒾𝓁𝓁s that the Lakers could use throughout the season. Expect both players to get their chances, especially in the early stages of the regular season, as Darvin Ham evaluates how they fit into different lineups.

Conclusion: A Key Frontcourt Battle to Watch

The training camp battle between Christian Koloko and Jaxson Hayes is one of the more intriguing storylines for the Lakers this season. With both players looking to prove themselves and secure a spot in the rotation, their performances in camp and preseason games will be critical. Whether the Lakers prioritize Koloko’s defense or Hayes’ offensive energy, both players bring valuable s𝓀𝒾𝓁𝓁 sets that could help bolster the team’s depth behind Anthony Davis.

Lakers Nation should keep a close eye on how this competition unfolds, as the outcome could have a significant impact on the Lakers’ frontcourt rotation and their overall performance this season.