New Orleans Pelicans
Jaxson Hayes
Similar to Brandon Clarke, Jackson Hayes had a terrific rookie season that was constantly over-hyped by the other rookie on Pelicans (Zion Williamson… duh). The 6-foot 11 center out of Texas falls under the same prototype of a rim-rolling center like Rudy Gobert or Jarrett Allen but has some freakish athleticism to him that could make him elite. Hayes is more fleet of foot than your standard center so he projects to be able to defend the perimeter, while also using his length to patrol and protect the paint.
Last season, Jaxson Hayes averaged 7.4 points, 4.0 rebounds, and 1.0 block in his 17 minutes per game, to go along with some impressive highlight reel alley-oop dunks and blocks. Hayes is really devoid of any offensive moves outside of three feet at this point of his career, but his 65 percent free throw percentage leads you to believe he has some shooting touch that could lead to more around-the-basket offensive skills.
Hayes was stuck playing behind Derrick Favors last year and will now have to compete for minutes against Steven Adams. Whether or not Adams is part of the long-term future for New Orleans, Hayes should still see 20 minutes a night as a backup center with an opportunity for more. Pairing the freakishly athletic Jaxson Hayes with the freakishly athletic Zion Williamson should make a freakishly imposing frontcourt for New Orleans.