National team collaboration? Hayes strives to obtain Slovenian passport to play alongside Doncic next summer

On October 16th Beijing time, Basketnews reported that Lakers center Hayes is making efforts to acquire a Slovenian passport in hopes of joining the Slovenian national team alongside Doncic. After losing to the Mavericks in the playoffs today, Hayes said, “Doncic is my teammate, and we are currently working on getting my Slovenian passport so I can play with him next summer.”

Slovenia had previously considered naturalizing Mavericks’ Gafford, but that plan never came to fruition.

During this offseason, Hayes re-signed a one-year contract with the Lakers that includes a trade veto clause.

The 25-year-old center appeared in 56 games last season, starting 35 of them, averaging 6.8 points and 4.8 rebounds per game. His role increased after Los Angeles traded Anthony Davis to Dallas in early February.

As a veteran with six years of NBA experience, Hayes began his career with the Pelicans. In the upcoming 2025-26 season, he is expected to serve as the backup center to former top pick Deandre Ayton.

Next summer, Slovenia will participate in the 2027 FIBA World Cup qualifiers. Will we see Hayes and Doncic continue to team up in national team competitions?