Jaxson Hayes has started all three playoff games for the Los Angeles Lakers against the Minnesota Timberwolves, but his impact has been minimal, logging under 10 minutes in each game and contributing to a negative net rating. The Lakers are struggling in the paint, having been outscored significantly in that area, leading to discussions about changes to the starting lineup. Coach JJ Redick expressed a lack of trust in Hayes while emphasizing continued belief in his potential.

The Lakers' thin roster is a concern, as they lack viable center options and need to make strategic decisions to optimize their performance. The team's reliance on various lineups has proven ineffective, and the pressure is on to find a solution before the next game. Hayes' deficiencies in offense and defense make him a liability, and the Lakers are weighing the possibility of starting different players, such as Dorian Finney-Smith, to combat their issues in the paint.

The Los Angeles Lakers are facing a crucial moment as they gear up for Game 2 of their playoff series against the Minnesota Timberwolves. After a disappointing 117-95 loss in Game 1, the Lakers find themselves in a precarious position, needing a win to avoid a daunting 0-2 series deficit. Dorian Finney-Smith emphasized the necessity of the game, stating, "It's a must-win. Especially if we’re trying to do something special, we have to get this win."

Historically, the Lakers have struggled at Target Center, having lost seven of their last eight games there, and their regular-season road record of 19-22 adds to the urgency. Finney-Smith, who contributed only three points in the previous game, will need to elevate his performance alongside his teammates if they hope to rebound in Game 2. The team’s bench needs to step up, as their combined output of 13 points in Game 1 was insufficient. A win at Crypto.com Arena on Tuesday evening is essential for the Lakers to gain momentum in this playoff series.

Dorian Finney-Smith has emerged as a pivotal figure for the Los Angeles Lakers following his trade from the Brooklyn Nets. His presence has provided the team with much-needed versatility on defense and increased effectiveness in a 3-and-D role. Finney-Smith leads the league in defensive positional versatility, showcasing his ability to guard multiple positions.

His contribution goes beyond traditional statistics, as his impact is reflected in the highest net rating of any Lakers player at 10.6. Coach JJ Redick’s defensive strategy, which emphasizes switching, has gained momentum since Finney-Smith's arrival, marking a significant shift in the team's defensive identity. This transformation is crucial as the Lakers aim for championship contention with Luka Doncic now on the roster.

The Los Angeles Lakers secured an impressive victory against the Oklahoma City Thunder, dominating the game 126-99, despite the Thunder holding the best record in the NBA. As they prepare for a rematch on Tuesday, the Lakers face a challenge with several key players potentially sidelined. Notably, starting forward Rui Hachimura is confirmed out, while LeBron James, Luka Doncic, Austin Reaves, Dorian Finney-Smith, and Gabe Vincent are all listed as questionable. The Lakers will need to navigate this challenging lineup as they aim to send a strong message about their playoff ambitions.

Dorian Finney-Smith has quietly made a significant impact since joining the Los Angeles Lakers, contributing to their resurgence in the standings. Acquired in a trade that sent D'Angelo Russell to the Brooklyn Nets, Finney-Smith has quickly established himself as a vital piece of the Lakers' roster, particularly with his defensive prowess and 3-point shooting capabilities. His leadership on and off the court has not gone unnoticed, as he has been named a finalist for the NBA's Sportsmanship Award. With the playoffs approaching, his ability to match up against elite wing players will be crucial for Los Angeles' success.