The 2026 NBA All-Star Weekend in Los Angeles has wrapped up, and the Los Angeles Lakers had a strong presence. Jaxson Hayes showcased his skills in the NBA Slam Dunk Contest, while Luka Doncic and LeBron James took center stage in the All-Star Game.
Hayes entered the Dunk Contest with high hopes, having dazzled fans with his aerial acrobatics in the lead-up. Yet, despite his preparation, he didn't make it past the opening rounds, delivering a performance that fell short of expectations.
For Hayes, the early exit was a letdown, especially since participating in the Dunk Contest had been a long-held dream. While there's a chance he might be invited again, Hayes seems hesitant.
Reflecting on the physical demands, he noted, “This is my seventh year in the NBA, and next year will be my eighth. These young guys have more bounce.
After my first dunk, I felt it in my knees. It was fun to do and to say I did it, but I don’t know.
I’m not gonna fully shut out the dunk contest, but most likely no. I’d rather much be in Hawaii right now.”
Given the grueling nature of the NBA season and the risk of injury, Hayes' caution is understandable. The Dunk Contest itself has struggled with a decline in star participation, posing a challenge for the league to address.
The Lakers have faced significant injury issues throughout the 2025-26 season, so avoiding unnecessary risks is crucial. While it was disappointing not to see Hayes clinch a victory, the team's priorities lie elsewhere.
In other news, Jaxson Hayes is on the verge of obtaining Slovenian citizenship, paving the way for him to potentially join the Slovenian national team. Teaming up with his Lakers teammate Luka Doncic on the international stage could bolster Slovenia, which lacks the NBA depth of other national teams.