In a move aimed at bolstering their frontcourt depth and athleticism, the Los Angeles Lakers have signed center Jaxson Hayes to a one-year, $3 million deal, league sources confirmed on Wednesday. The agreement marks a reunion between the Lakers and the 24-year-old big man, who spent the 2023-24 season with the team and showed flashes of potential as a rotational piece.
Hayes, the eighth overall pick in the 2019 NBA Draft, initially joined the Lakers last summer on a veteran minimum deal after four seasons with the New Orleans Pelicans. While his role in the 2023-24 campaign was limited, he made the most of his opportunities, providing energy, rim protection, and vertical spacing in select lineups off the bench.
Now, after a season of adjustment and growth under the bright lights of Los Angeles, the Lakers are bringing Hayes back — this time with a modest raise and, potentially, a larger role under new head coach JJ Redick.
The 6-foot-11 center appeared in 54 games last season, averaging 4.3 points and 3.1 rebounds in just under 13 minutes per game. Despite limited playing time, his impact was felt most during stretches where the Lakers leaned into smaller, more mobile lineups. Hayes’ ability to run the floor, finish lobs, and switch defensively made him an intriguing complement to Anthony Davis, particularly when Davis played at the power forward spot.
The new one-year deal, worth $3 million, is likely structured as a prove-it contract — one that gives Hayes another chance to solidify his place in the NBA while giving the Lakers a cost-effective, high-upside option in the frontcourt. With Davis often managing his workload and occasional absences due to injury, depth at the center position has been a recurring issue for Los Angeles over the past few years.
Hayes’ return comes amid a busy offseason for the Lakers, who are looking to bounce back from a disappointing first-round playoff exit at the hands of the Denver Nuggets. With LeBron James officially re-signing and the front office aiming to maximize the team’s remaining title window, the focus has shifted to rounding out the roster with role players who can contribute consistently, particularly on the defensive end.
New head coach JJ Redick, who takes over following the departure of Darvin Ham, is expected to experiment with more modern, dynamic lineups that emphasize movement, spacing, and defensive versatility. Hayes fits that mold as a rim-running big who can switch onto guards and disrupt passing lanes with his length and agility. Under Redick’s guidance — and potentially with an expanded role — the former Texas Longhorn could see a breakout season.
While not yet a polished offensive threat, Hayes has continued to develop as a screener and finisher around the basket. His shot-blocking instincts and athleticism make him a valuable presence in transition defense and around the rim, areas where the Lakers have struggled in recent years.
The Lakers’ center depth behind Davis remains somewhat uncertain, with Christian Wood facing free agency and other rotation bigs like Rui Hachimura more comfortable at the four. Hayes’ return gives the team a traditional big man option who can play in spurts or step into a larger role if needed. His familiarity
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