Originally published by LakersNation.com
The 2026 NBA All-Star Weekend in Los Angeles has passed and the Los Angeles Lakers were represented well as players like Jaxson Hayes took part in the NBA Slam Dunk Contest while Luka Doncic and LeBron James played in the All-Star Game.
Hayes received an invitation for the Dunk Contest and seemed to be preparing for the event as he threw down several impressive dunks in the week prior. However, Hayes didn’t advance to the final round after putting up a subpar performance in the opening rounds.
It was a bit disappointing to see Hayes eliminated so early, especially after he acknowledged that he had always dreamed of participating in the event.
While Hayes still has a decent shot of being asked to do the Dunk Contest again, he acknowledged that the answer would most likely be no after seeing the toll it took on his knees.
“This is my seventh year in the NBA, I’m gonna be in my eighth year next year. You see these young guys got way more legs. I went up for my first dunk, I felt it right in my knees. I don’t think so,” Hayes said. “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.”
With how long and arduous the regular season is and the increased risk of injury, it makes sense why Hayes would look to avoid participating again. The event itself has seen a dip in popularity due to the lack of big-name stars participating, so that’s another obstacle the league needs to consider moving forward.
Staying healthy has been a huge problem for the Lakers during the 2025-26 season, so it would be disastrous if someone like Hayes got hurt outside of a game. It’s disappointing that Hayes couldn’t bring home the win, but L.A. has more important things to worry about.
Jaxson Hayes nearing completion of Slovenian citizenship
Jaxson Hayes may not consider participating in the NBA Slam Dunk Contest again, but it looks like he’s on track to play for the Slovenian national team as he is reportedly nearing completion of gaining citizenship.
Hayes has been open about his desire to play on the national stage alongside his Lakers teammate Luka Doncic. Doncic’s Slovenia squads lack the NBA talent other countries boast, so Hayes would be a huge reinforcement.
Have you subscribed to our YouTube channel? It’s the best way to watch player interviews, exclusive coverage from events, participate in live shows, and more!
The 2026 NBA All-Star Weekend in Los Angeles has passed and the Los Angeles Lakers were represented well as players like Jaxson Hayes took part in the NBA Slam Dunk Contest while Luka Doncic and LeBron James played in the All-Star Game.
Hayes received an invitation for the Dunk Contest and seemed to be preparing for the event as he threw down several impressive dunks in the week prior. However, Hayes didn’t advance to the final round after putting up a subpar performance in the opening rounds.
It was a bit disappointing to see Hayes eliminated so early, especially after he acknowledged that he had always dreamed of participating in the event.
While Hayes still has a decent shot of being asked to do the Dunk Contest again, he acknowledged that the answer would most likely be no after seeing the toll it took on his knees.
“This is my seventh year in the NBA, I’m gonna be in my eighth year next year. You see these young guys got way more legs. I went up for my first dunk, I felt it right in my knees. I don’t think so,” Hayes said. “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.”
With how long and arduous the regular season is and the increased risk of injury, it makes sense why Hayes would look to avoid participating again. The event itself has seen a dip in popularity due to the lack of big-name stars participating, so that’s another obstacle the league needs to consider moving forward.
Staying healthy has been a huge problem for the Lakers during the 2025-26 season, so it would be disastrous if someone like Hayes got hurt outside of a game. It’s disappointing that Hayes couldn’t bring home the win, but L.A. has more important things to worry about.
Jaxson Hayes nearing completion of Slovenian citizenship
Jaxson Hayes may not consider participating in the NBA Slam Dunk Contest again, but it looks like he’s on track to play for the Slovenian national team as he is reportedly nearing completion of gaining citizenship.
Hayes has been open about his desire to play on the national stage alongside his Lakers teammate Luka Doncic. Doncic’s Slovenia squads lack the NBA talent other countries boast, so Hayes would be a huge reinforcement.
Have you subscribed to our YouTube channel? It’s the best way to watch player interviews, exclusive coverage from events, participate in live shows, and more!
