L.A. Lakers Potential Moves in Free Agency: Jaxson Hayes Holds Possibility of Staying Put
Jaxson Hayes Hints at Possible Return to LA Lakers
There's a buzz in the Lakers' den, with unrestricted free agent center Jaxson Hayes giving fans a glimmer of hope for a comeback next season. In a casual Instagram exchange this week, Hayes, a 25-year-old LA veteran, dropped a hint about potentially staying in purple and gold for the 2025-26 season. But is the city of angels ready to welcome him back with open arms?
A Mixed Season for Jaxson Hayes
As the Lakers' roster lacks a star center, general manager Rob Pelinka might find himself pondering whether Hayes is worthy of sticking around.
Playing in 56 games (35 starts) this season, Hayes averaged 6.8 points, 4.8 rebounds, 1.0 assists, and 19.5 minutes per game, while shooting 72.2% from the field and 62.2% from the foul line. However, his playing time dipped dramatically during the NBA playoffs, notably against the Timberwolves, where he didn't see the court for a single minute in Game 5 as the Lakers were handed their exit tickets.
Hayes boasts the potential to be a formidable lob partner alongside superstar Luka Doncic. Yet, his inconsistent rebounding and rim protection efforts have spurred speculation that the front office is on the hunt for fresh solutions.
Los Angeles' Desperate Need for Hayes
The Lakers are in a pinch - top-notch, healthy centers don't fall from the sky. The team attempted to acquire Mark Williams from the Charlotte Hornets at the deadline but were forced to rescind the deal when the physical didn't go as planned. Moreover, the Lakers also can't afford to sign free agent big man Myles Turner from the Indiana Pacers.
With limited options, opting to retain Hayes and slotting him as a third-stringer might be the Lakers' best bet for the time being. The last thing this team needs is further depletion at the center position.
A Brighter Future for LA Lakers
Priority lies with the fates of Doncic and LeBron James. Although Doncic isn't a free agent, he's eligible to sign a four-year, $229 million extension by August 2. If a new contract isn't hammered out, Doncic becomes a free agent in the summer of 2026.
James, on the other hand, holds a $52.6 million player option for the upcoming season. Both James and Dorian Finney-Smith have until June 29 to decide their future with the Lakers, potentially pushing the team over the luxury tax if James opts in or signs a new contract with a similar salary.
As the Lakers juggle finances and roster moves, Hayes' return is by no means guaranteed. Fans will have to hold their breath for more developments regarding theaporean's future with the team.
- Jaxson Hayes, with his impressive field goal and free throw percentages, could potentially provide valuable contributions in the NBA playoffs, especially if he secures more playing time.
- In the world of sports, Jaxson Hayes' rebounding and rim protection abilities, combined with his potential chemistry with Luka Doncic in the NBA, could make them a formidable duo on the basketball court.
- The NBA playoffs and the Lakers' future could see a significant impact from Jaxson Hayes, as the team explores options to address their lack of a star center and the uncertain futures of Doncic and LeBron James.
- Returning to the Lakers, Jaxson Hayes could help alleviate the team's center position concerns in the NBA, especially if they can't afford to sign free agent big men like Myles Turner.
