Lakers' Jaxson Hayes Suspended for Pushing Wizards Mascot During Pre-Game Introductions

Los Angeles Lakers center Jaxson Hayes has been suspended one game for pushing G-Wiz, the Washington Wizards' mascot, per NBA Communications. The incident happened prior to L.A.'s 142-111 road win at Washington on Jan. 30.

Hayes will sit the Lakers' home game against the Philadelphia 76ers on Thursday.

G-Wiz did not suffer any injuries due to the incident, per Dan Woike of The Athletic.

Hayes has played seven NBA seasons—four for the New Orleans Pelicans and three for the Lakers. He's averaged 6.4 points on 77.5 percent shooting and 3.8 rebounds per game. Hayes has played 17.4 minutes per game over 41 contests (four starts) and comes off the bench as the primary backup for starting center Deandre Ayton.

The 30-19 Lakers are about to embark on an eight-game homestand beginning with the 76ers game. Hayes will be eligible to return on Saturday, when the Lakers host the Golden State Warriors.

One week later, he will take part in the NBA Slam Dunk Contest, which will occur in Los Angeles' Intuit Dome, home of the Clippers.