Jaxson Hayes out 1-2 weeks with ankle sprain in latest injury setback for Lakers

Los Angeles Lakers center Jaxson Hayes is expected to miss 1-2 weeks with a right ankle sprain, the team announced on Friday.

Hayes suffered the injury in the Lakers' 112-109 loss to the Denver Nuggets on Thursday night. He rolled his ankle while trying to defend a drive by Nikola Jokic in the third quarter and had to be helped off the court. X-rays taken after the game were negative, but an MRI on Friday revealed the sprain.

The injury is a significant blow to the Lakers, who are already without several key players, including Anthony Davis (foot), LeBron James (ankle), and Lonnie Walker IV (knee). Hayes has been a bright spot for the Lakers this season, averaging 9.4 points and 5.4 rebounds in 19 starts.

With Hayes out, the Lakers will likely turn to DeAndre Jordan and Damian Jones to fill the void at center. Jordan has started 10 games this season, while Jones has started in three. Both players have struggled this season, but they will need to step up in Hayes' absence.

The Lakers are 15-16 this season and are currently in 12th place in the Western Conference. They are scheduled to face the Memphis Grizzlies on Saturday night.