Preload hints with lazy loading serve to optimize resource loading by: 1) Informing the browser about critical resources that will be needed soon, 2) Allowing the browser to start loading these resources before they're explicitly requested, 3) Improving perceived performance by reducing loading delays, 4) Maintaining the benefits of lazy loading while optimizing for specific user flows. This technique is particularly useful for resources that are needed shortly after the initial page load or for critical paths in your application. However, preload hints should be used judiciously to avoid unnecessarily consuming bandwidth.