NBA News: Lakers’ Jaxson Hayes suspended for hitting Wizards mascot

Los Angeles Lakers center Jaxson Hayes was suspended for one game Wednesday after a bizarre moment with Washington Wizards mascot “G-Wiz.”

The incident between Hayes and the mascot occurred during introductions prior to the Lakers-Wizards game on Friday. “G-Wiz” was carrying a Wizards flag down the court and toward the Lakers bench when he performed a hip check worthy of a spot on an NFL roster.

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“G-Wiz” was reportedly unharmed in the incident.

Hayes contributed 10 points, three rebounds and an assist off the bench as the Lakers won the game 142-111. The NBA said Hayes will not participate in Thursday’s game against the Philadelphia 76ers.

The Atlanta Hawks selected Hayes with the eighth overall pick in the 2019 NBA Draft. His draft rights were traded to the New Orleans Pelicans. The 7-foot center was a standout player for the Texas Longhorns before turning pro.

The Washington Wizards mascot performs during the first half against the Brooklyn Nets at Capital One Arena on January 2, 2026. (Daniel Kucin Jr./Imagn Images)

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He played four seasons with the Pelicans, averaging 7.5 points and 2.6 rebounds in 241 games for the team.

Hayes signed a contract with the Lakers before the start of the 2023-24 season.

Los Angeles Lakers’ Jaxson Hayes (11) celebrates after making a dunk during the first half of an NBA basketball game against the Brooklyn Nets on Tuesday, Feb. 3, 2026, in New York. (AP Photo/Frank Franklin II)

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This season, Hayes is averaging 6.4 points and 3.8 rebounds per game in 41 games. The Lakers are 30-19 this season and currently sit in sixth place in the Western Conference with the All-Star break right around the corner.