The Minnesota Timberwolves and Los Angeles Lakers tip off their playoff series Saturday, pitting two different styles of center play against each other. While the Lakers often prefer smaller lineups built around LeBron James and Luka Doncic, their primary traditional big man tasked with anchoring the paint is Jaxson Hayes.
Hayes faces a significant challenge immediately. Across the floor stands Rudy Gobert, the Timberwolves' defensive anchor and a four-time Defensive Player of the Year. Gobert finished the regular season strong, playing his best basketball following an injury break after the All-Star period. The center returned in early March, making a more consistent impact on both ends as the Wolves ended the season with 17 wins in their last 21 games.
Gobert's presence inside dictates much of what opponents attempt. However, the Lakers' starting center, Jaxson Hayes, brings athleticism that could test the veteran defender.
Hayes discussed his approach to facing the dominant center. He noted his focus is not solely on Gobert himself, but on facilitating the team's offense and competing hard. Key tasks Hayes identified for the matchup include boxing out, forcing Gobert to move, getting favorable switches for teammates, and setting effective screens.
A potential hurdle for Hayes is his tendency to foul. He acknowledged this weakness, stating he knows calls are likely to go against him if he is out of position. Staying disciplined will be crucial for the young center to remain on the floor and contribute meaningful minutes.
The Lakers' size includes Hayes, along with forwards Rui Hachimura and James. Minnesota counters with Gobert, Jaden McDaniels, Julius Randle, and Naz Reid. The series presents a contrast between Minnesota's reliance on its size, centered around Rudy Gobert, and Los Angeles' preference for perimeter play and speed.
Minnesota and Gobert are familiar with facing one of the Lakers' stars in the playoffs. Last season, Gobert matched up against Doncic when Dallas eliminated the Wolves in the Western Conference finals. Doncic had a viral moment, hitting a game-winning step-back 3-pointer over Gobert in Game 2 of that series.
As the series unfolds, the battle in the paint, particularly the effectiveness of Jaxson Hayes against the imposing Rudy Gobert, will be a major storyline to watch.
