Who is Jaden Hardy? How Lakers' new guard from Wizards trade can help

1 hour ago 3

The Los Angeles Lakers traded Deandre Ayton on Friday for two second-round picks, and for a guard named Jaden Hardy.

Hardy isn't a well-known player, having most recently suited up for the Washington Wizards.

There's a chance Hardy can actually be helpful to the Lakers, and his will be a name worth knowing.

MORE: Bronny James' best future doesn't involve a trade from Lakers

Who is Jaden Hardy?

Hardy is a 6-foot-3 guard who will turn 24 on July 5.

He's originally from Detroit, and he was the No. 37 overall pick in the 2022 NBA Draft.

Hardy played his first four seasons in the NBA with the Dallas Mavericks and then was moved to the Wizards midway through the 2025-26 season.

For his career, he has averaged 8.4 points, 1.7 rebounds, 1.3 assists and 0.4 steals per game.

MORE: C avaliers would form GOAT ending for LeBron James

He can shoot.

Hardy has made 38.6% of his career 3-pointers, never below 36.2% in a given season.

In his 23-game stint with the Wizards, Hardy made 42.0% of his 3s on 6.0 attempts per game.

He has decent playmaking skills, but his overall impact on the Lakers will be determined by his ability to make 3s.