The Lakers have had their struggles, but Jaxson Hayes and Christian Wood’s return could change everything. It’s been a tough ride, and everyone’s been holding their breath and waiting for some good news. Well, it looks like that moment might finally be here, as recent updates bring a much-needed spark of hope for the team’s runup to the playoffs. In a recent interview, JJ Redick gave the Lakers Nation a sneak peek into the recovery process for both players. Could this mean they’ll be back sooner than expected?

With both players making strides in their recovery, the LA side will look to give LeBron James and AD the help they desperately need. Stay tuned, because this update might be the boost they need to stay competitive this season!

Will Christian Wood and Jaxson Hayes play in the next game against the Kings?

JJ Redick shared positive news about Christian Wood’s rehabilitation. While a specific return date hasn’t been set/scheduled by the medical staff, Wood has been progressing well. “He continues to progress… He’s going to stay back and do live drills against the coaches while we’re in Sacramento, which is a big step forward for him,” Redick noted. Wood’s work on the court, including his rehab and court drills, has been promising. “He’s getting closer, and barring any setbacks, it looks like he’ll be back soon,” Redick added. This is a crucial step as the Lakers need Wood’s offensive versatility to bolster their lineup.

Jaxon Hayes, on the other hand, had missed six games after spraining his right ankle. He was able to return against the Phoenix Suns although he re-aggravated the injury at the end of the game and has now missed the Lakers’ last 9 games ever since.

“Jaxson is continuing to work to strengthen his ankle. He will likely have an update early next week in terms of what return-to-play looks like. But right now, the focus for him is just on strengthening that ankle,” Redick explained during the presser.

Regardless, getting Hayes back will be a big boost as he was giving the Lakers solid minutes to begin the season with his size and energy. Overall, in 11 games (1 start) this season, Hayes has averaged 6.4 points and 4.5 rebounds while shooting 72% from the floor.

As the Lakers eagerly await the return of Hayes and Wood, it’s impossible to ignore the impact their absence has had on the team’s performance across the board. Let’s take a deeper dive into how the Lakers are doing this season.

Lakers’ struggles without Hayes and Wood: A closer look at the impact on rebounding, defense, and offense

So, the Lakers are struggling both on offense and defense without Jaxson Hayes and Christian Wood. One of the big things you see is how it’s messing with their rebounding. In games where Hayes isn’t playing, who’s pretty good at blocking shots and grabbing boards, the Lakers are getting about 4.6 fewer rebounds per game. With him sidelined, they’ve struggled to get more 2nd-chance opportunities and reduce the opponents’ possessions. Hayes’ shot-blocking and rim protection are big components of the overall team defense.

When he’s out there, the LA team’s defensive rating is 4 points per 100 possessions. When he isn’t, that number leaps to about 5 points per 100 possessions. That is the difference between keeping par with a team that’s scoring on you and having them beat you up badly.

Man, oh man, the Lakers miss Christian Wood. That’s a huge lift off the bench and he was able to make shots that stretch the game when he was available. He can also take things over in tight moments. So, the Lakers have closed 5-7 in the 12 games that they have played without Hayes and Wood.

AD has taken on an enormous responsibility, shouldering much of the load on both ends of the court. His performance has been nothing short of exceptional. With Hayes and Wood still out, Davis has been averaging an impressive 27.8 points, 11.4 rebounds, and 2 blocks per game. His defense, particularly in the post, has been crucial. However, even with his elite performance, it’s clear that he cannot carry the team on his own.

LeBron James, 39, continues running circles around Father Time. He’s still dropping in 22.8 points, 8 rebounds, and 9.1 assists per game, showing there’s much more gas in the tank. His leadership will be key, but the Lakers need much more from the rest of their role players to stay competitive.

With Hayes and Wood on the mend, do you think the Lakers have what it takes to stay in the race? Let us know below.