Here’s an in-depth breakdown of Jaxson Hayes’s return to the Lakers:
Jaxson Hayes Agrees to One-Year Return With Lakers: A Strategic Move
In a move that promises consistency and depth for Los Angeles, Jaxson Hayes has officially agreed to a one-year contract to return to the Lakers for the 2025–26 season. This development was first reported by Shams Charania of ESPN and confirmed through multiple sources on July 3, 2025
Hayes’s return completes the Lakers’ 15-man roster, slotting him neatly behind recently acquired Deandre Ayton as the backup center With only Shake Milton’s non-guaranteed $3 million deal still undecided, the Lakers are sharply focused on maximizing depth without sacrificing flexibility
Recap: Hayes’s 2024–25 Season and Role Evolution
Efficiency at the Rim
Hayes logged a career-high 72.2% field-goal percentage last season, converting 6.8 points and 4.8 rebounds per game across 56 outings His dominance around the basket was evident, finishing among the NBA’s elite in contested layups and dunks.
Defense and Athleticism
While not a traditional rim protector, Hayes made notable strides defensively. He averaged 1.8 blocks per 36 minutes and maintained elite defensive rotations Reddit fans frequently praised his defensive game. One enthused note said:
“Jaxson Hayes is the number 1 defensive center in the NBA since Feb 1 (102.5 DEF RTG…)” (reddit.com, reddit.com)
Another user celebrated his rise:
“He has stepped up BIG TIME… 20‑5 when Jaxson Hayes plays at least 14 minutes” (reddit.com)
Offensive Fit
A perfect fit alongside Luka Dončić and LeBron James, Hayes’s athleticism and lob-threat ability elevated his value He admitted the dynamic duo—plus D’Angelo Russell and Austin Reaves—helped unlock his full potential .
What This Signing Means for the Lakers
Reinforced Frontcourt Depth
With Deandre Ayton penciled in as the starting pivot, Hayes gives the Lakers a dependable second option—lightning in transition, finisher in the paint. He brings a consistent presence, avoiding the extremes of over- or under-playing, an issue highlighted by his playoff benching last postseason (africa.espn.com).
Payroll Efficiency
Hayes’s deal comes at or near the veteran minimum. According to Spotrac, he earned just $2.46 million in 2024–25 . For that price, he delivers energy, defense, and offensive efficiency—making him a high-value bench piece.
Locker Room Continuity
Retaining Hayes ensures that a young, athletic voice remains in the fold. He embraces his role, plays team-first, and shows continual improvement—qualities celebrated by both analysts and fans .
Fan & Analyst Perspective
- Fan sentiment is overwhelmingly positive: “He has no ego”, “playing smarter, more energy, more effort”
- Analysts note his efficiency and highlight that while he’s not the long-term solution in the middle, he performs well in limited spurts
Risks & Considerations
- Playoff form dips: He saw just 10 minutes or less in every playoff game and missed Game 5 entirely against Minnesota). Coaches have previously hesitated to trust him in critical moments.
- Physical limitations: At 220 lb, he’s undersized against heftier centers. If not careful defensively, he can be overpowered .
- Roster strategy: Despite Hayes’s presence, Lakers brass and analysts alike emphasize the need to secure a premiere center via trade or free agency
Looking Ahead: 2025–26 Outlook
- Bench anchor: Expect Hayes to provide 15–20 minutes per game as an efficient finisher, pick-and-roll roller, and transition threat.
- Development focus: Aimed now at polishing his defense, improving physicality, and better shot selection—refining his flaws could turn him into a legitimate backup center.
- Team trajectory: The Lakers hope that with Ayton anchored in the rotation and Hayes ready off the bench, they can marry youth and athleticism with star power—a tantalizing mix led by LeBron, Luka, and Ayton.
Conclusion
Re-signing Jaxson Hayes on a one-year deal is a smart play by the Lakers—affordable, efficient, and culturally fitting. He offers energy, athleticism, and chemistry with the roster’s core. While not a long-term solution in the paint, he ensures stability while frontcourt upgrades are pursued. If Hayes continues to evolve—especially on defense—and remains a reliable lob option and locker room presence, this contract could pay dividends for both parties.
