Pelican's Jaxson Hayes Arrested After Fight With Cops, Faces Battery Charge

Former Texas Longhorn and current New Orleans Pelicans center Jaxson Hayes was arrested on Wednesday following a domestic dispute that turned into an altercation with police, reports say.

According to a report by TMZ, law enforcement was called to a domestic disturbance in an Los Angeles-area home, in which Hayes, 21, allegedly tried to keep cops from entering. It is unclear whose house the incident occurred.

An alleged fight ensued between Hayes and police officers, which reportedly got out of hand quickly, as police put out an "officer needs help" radio call and Hayes was allegedly tasered.

The New York Post reported Hayes and another officer were taken to a hospital and sought medical treatment. Hayes had minor injuries and the condition of the officer is unknown at this time.

According to the Post, Hayes is expected to be charged with felony battery on a police officer, and the initial dispute that required police presence remains under investigation.

The Pelicans reportedly released an official statement on the incident, saying, "We have been made aware of the incident involving Jaxson Hayes. We are working in conjunction with the NBA and Jaxson's representatives to gather more information and will have no further comment at this time."

The Pelicans first drafted Hayes eighth overall in the first round of the 2019 NBA Draft.

Last season, Hayes played in 60 games, averaging just over 16 minutes, 7.5 points and a little more than four rebounds per game.

The incident occurred just one day before the NBA draft, in which the New Orleans Pelicans have the no. 17 pick and are predicted to be scouting for strong three-point shooting, perimeter defense and guard depth.

As the draft approaches, according to a report by the NBA, the Pelicans and the Memphis Grizzlies have agreed to a deal that will send center Jonas Valanciunas and 2021 NBA Draft picks to New Orleans for center Steven Adams, guard Eric Beldsoe and draft picks.

This deal clears the way for young Pelicans guards Nickeil Alexander-Walker and Kira Lewis Jr. to see more playing time.

The Pelicans have also made a few changes in their coaching staff before the season, hiring Phoenix Suns assistant Willie Green as their new head coach.

"It's a blessing and an honor to get this opportunity in a special place like New Orleans. I look forward to getting to work and immersing myself and my family into the local community," Green said in an NBA report.

Newsweek reached out to Los Angeles Police Department for comment but did not hear back in time for publication.