Lakers center suspended after shoving Wizards mascot before game

Los Angeles Lakers center Jaxson Hayes was suspended for one game on Wednesday following a bizarre moment with the Washington Wizards’ mascot "G-Wiz."

The incident between Hayes and the mascot occurred during introductions before the Lakers-Wizards game on Friday. "G-Wiz" was carrying a Wizards flag down the court and toward the Lakers’ bench when Hayes delivered a hip check worthy of a spot on an NFL roster.

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"G-Wiz" was reportedly uninjured in the incident.

Hayes went on to contribute 10 points, three rebounds and an assist off the bench as the Lakers won the game 142-111. The NBA said Hayes will sit out Thursday’s game against the Philadelphia 76ers.

The Atlanta Hawks selected Hayes with the No. 8 overall pick of 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 he turned pro.

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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.

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 around the corner.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.

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