Los Angeles Lakers Re-sign Jaxson Hayes on One-Year Contract

In a significant move for their roster, the Los Angeles Lakers have re-signed free agent center Jaxson Hayes to a one-year contract, as reported by ESPN on July 4, 2025. This decision comes shortly after the franchise secured a two-year deal with fellow center Deandre Ayton, indicating a strategic enhancement of their frontcourt depth.

Jaxson Hayes, who emerged as the Lakers' starting center last season, demonstrated remarkable efficiency, achieving a career-high field goal percentage of 72.2%. His defensive capabilities were also highlighted, as he ranked in the top ten for field goal percentage allowed while contesting layups and dunks among players contesting 250 or more shots, according to ESPN Research.

Over the last season, Hayes averaged 6.8 points and 4.8 rebounds across 56 games. His contributions were particularly notable during the playoffs, where he started the first four games of the Lakers' series against the Minnesota Timberwolves. However, he faced challenges in maintaining significant playing time, logging no more than ten minutes in any playoff game and did not participate in the decisive Game 5.

The re-signing of Hayes underscores the Lakers’ focus on strengthening their roster ahead of the upcoming season. Rob Pelinka, the Lakers’ president of basketball operations and general manager, played a pivotal role in finalizing Hayes’ contract, alongside his agents Bill Duffy and Marlon Harrison from WME Basketball.

The decision to bring back Hayes reflects the franchise's commitment to building a competitive team, particularly as they integrate Ayton into their lineup. Analysts suggest that Hayes’ combination of offensive efficiency and defensive prowess will be crucial as the Lakers aim for a successful 2025-26 season.

Experts in sports management have noted the importance of maintaining a robust frontcourt, especially in a league that increasingly values versatility and depth. According to Dr. Emily Thompson, a sports economics expert at Stanford University, “The Lakers are making a calculated decision by retaining Hayes, who provides both scoring and defensive capabilities that complement Ayton’s playing style.”

The implications of this signing extend beyond immediate performance metrics. As the Lakers continue to navigate the competitive landscape of the NBA, the integration of both Hayes and Ayton is expected to enhance their playoff aspirations. The Lakers’ fan base is eager to see how these developments will unfold as the new season approaches.

In summary, Jaxson Hayes' re-signing represents a strategic move for the Los Angeles Lakers, reinforcing their frontcourt as they gear up for a challenging season ahead. With a focus on efficiency and defense, the team is poised to build on last year’s performance and make a significant impact in the upcoming NBA season.