The Los Angeles Lakers have announced a one-game suspension for center Jaxson Hayes following his involvement in an incident with the Washington Wizards‘ mascot, G-Wiz, on February 4, 2026. The suspension was confirmed by the NBA on Wednesday, stemming from a pregame event in Washington before the Lakers’ road victory.
During player introductions prior to the game, G-Wiz was running off the court when Hayes intentionally bumped into the shorter mascot, knocking him off his feet. Video footage shows the mascot being pushed toward the Wizards dance team, who were already entering the floor at the time.
“Jaxson Hayes shoved Wizards mascot, G-Wiz, in pre-game introductions Hayes has been suspended for one game, per @ShamsCharania pic.twitter.com/x4xz2Ndw2I”
Hayes is set to serve this suspension in the Lakers’ next game against the Philadelphia 76ers, which will open an eight-game homestand scheduled around the NBA All-Star Weekend events from February 13 to 15.
Background on Jaxson Hayes’ Previous Conduct and Current Season Performance
This is not the first time Hayes has encountered disciplinary issues off the court. In July 2021, Los Angeles police responded to a domestic dispute at his residence involving the cousin of then-girlfriend Sofia Jamora. On arrival, officers recorded a physical altercation between Hayes and a police officer, which resulted in injuries to the officer.
According to legal documents, Hayes compensated the officer $150,000 for the injuries sustained during the encounter. He was subsequently charged with 12 misdemeanors in Los Angeles County and received a sentence that included three years of probation, community service, and mandatory attendance in domestic violence classes. The NBA did not impose any suspensions or fines related to that prior matter.
In the current 2025-26 NBA season, the 7-foot-tall Hayes has participated in 41 games, averaging 6.4 points per game with an impressive 77.5% shooting percentage, along with 3.8 rebounds per contest. Notably, he is also scheduled to compete in the Dunk Contest during the upcoming All-Star Weekend.
Impact of Suspension on Lakers and Upcoming Schedule
The Lakers will face the Philadelphia 76ers at home as the first game of a critical eight-game homestand. Hayes’ absence during this stretch could affect rotation depth, especially as the team prepares for the All-Star break. The suspension highlights the league’s stance on maintaining professionalism even during lighthearted pregame moments.
Jaxson Hayes’ disciplinary history and this most recent suspension raise questions about his off-court conduct and its implications for his career trajectory. How the Lakers manage these challenges while maintaining on-court success will be crucial, especially with key league events approaching.
Jaxson Hayes shoved Wizards mascot, G-Wiz, in pre-game introductions
Hayes has been suspended for one game, per @ShamsCharania pic.twitter.com/x4xz2Ndw2I
— Bleacher Report (@BleacherReport) February 4, 2026
