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Lakers’ Jaxson Hayes suspended by NBA for the strangest reason

Originally posted on Larry Brown Sports | By Grey Papke | Last updated Feb 4, 2026 3:52 PM ET

Los Angeles Lakers center Jaxson Hayes has been suspended for one game by the NBA for a very bizarre reason.

The NBA said in a statement Wednesday that Hayes will serve a suspension for “pushing a Washington Wizards mascot during pre-game introductions” prior to the Lakers’ Jan. 30 game in Washington. Hayes will serve the suspension on Thursday.

The following has been released by the NBA. pic.twitter.com/l5eKjuBZLQ
— NBA Communications (@NBAPR) February 4, 2026

Sadly, there was no video that emerged of the incident. Dan Woike of The Athletic confirmed, however, that Wizards mascot G-Wiz was not injured.

Sources tell me, actually, that G-Wiz, the Wizards mascot, was not injured after the incident with Hayes that led to the suspension.
— Dan Woike (@DanWoikeSports) February 4, 2026

Obviously, this is as strange a reason for a suspension as you are likely to see, especially since there are some other guys that have gotten away with it. Clearly, the NBA felt that something about this incident warranted a significant punishment.

Hayes has been a key reserve for the Lakers this season, averaging 6.4 points and 3.8 rebounds off the bench. As for G-Wiz, the mascot can take solace that it could have been a lot worse for him.

This article first appeared on Larry Brown Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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