The Los Angeles Lakers' center, Jaxson Hayes, has received a one-game suspension for pushing the Washington Wizards' mascot. The incident occurred prior to a game last week. Hayes shoved the mascot during pregame introductions but played in the following games. The team went on to win the game despite the altercation.

Hayes will miss Thursday's game against the Philadelphia 76ers. The 25-year-old big man averages 6.4 points and 3.8 rebounds per game this season. He's a key reserve for the Lakers. The suspension is a result of a physical altercation that is unusual in the league.

This suspension impacts the Lakers' depth and rotations. Hayes has been a solid contributor off the bench. He was also recently invited to participate in the upcoming dunk contest. The Lakers will need to adjust their strategy without him.

With Hayes out, the Lakers will need to rely on other players to fill the void. Anthony Davis is expected to step up. The team is aiming to improve its standing in the competitive Western Conference. The Lakers are hoping this doesn't derail their momentum.