BREAKING NEWS: Jaxson Hayes RETURNS to Los Angeles Lakers on One-Year Deal, Secures Backup Role Behind Deandre Ayton

The Los Angeles Lakers have officially secured a vital piece to their frontcourt rotation, as Jaxson Hayes has agreed to return to the purple and gold on a one-year contract. This move comes at a crucial time for the Lakers, following their high-profile addition of Deandre Ayton, with Hayes now solidifying himself as Ayton’s primary backup.

Hayes, known for his athleticism, shot-blocking presence, and vertical spacing ability, rejoins the Lakers after delivering one of the most efficient seasons of his NBA career. The 24-year-old big man posted a career-best 72.2% shooting percentage from the field last season, a testament to his ability to finish around the rim and operate as a lob threat in transition and pick-and-roll situations.

Equally impressive was Hayes’ defensive impact, particularly when protecting the basket. Among players who contested at least 250 shots at the rim last season, Hayes finished in the top-10 league-wide for lowest field goal percentage allowed on layups and dunks. His combination of timing, length, and agility made him one of the more underrated rim deterrents in the NBA, providing the type of interior presence championship-caliber teams covet.

The decision to re-sign Hayes aligns with the Lakers’ renewed emphasis on defense, depth, and athleticism. With the addition of Deandre Ayton—a move designed to boost their frontcourt’s offensive versatility and rebounding dominance—the Lakers needed a reliable second-unit center who could maintain defensive intensity and cover stretches when Ayton is resting or dealing with foul trouble.

Hayes fills that role perfectly.

Standing at 6-foot-11 with a 7-foot-4 wingspan, Hayes brings a rare combination of size, mobility, and bounce that fits seamlessly into the Lakers’ transition-oriented and high-pressure defensive schemes. His ability to switch on smaller players, protect the rim, and finish lobs in half-court sets adds critical dimensions to the Lakers’ bench unit.

Sources familiar with the negotiations indicate that both sides were eager to finalize the deal early in free agency, understanding the importance of continuity and defined roles entering next season. Hayes, who averaged 5.8 points, 3.7 rebounds, and nearly one block per game in limited minutes last year, is expected to take on an even more prominent role as the Lakers reshape their depth chart around new superstar additions and emerging young talent.

Lakers General Manager Rob Pelinka praised Hayes’ growth and contribution, highlighting his elite efficiency and defensive discipline as reasons for prioritizing his return.

“Jaxson embodies the type of modern big every team is looking for—efficient, athletic, and disruptive defensively,” Pelinka stated. “His ability to finish plays at the rim, protect the paint, and stay active in transition makes him an invaluable piece to what we’re building. We’re thrilled to have him back.”

Hayes originally signed with the Lakers ahead of the 2023-24 season after spending four seasons with the New Orleans Pelicans, where he developed a reputation as a high-upside rim-runner with untapped potential. While his minutes fluctuated in his first season in Los Angeles, his statistical efficiency skyrocketed, and his impact was particularly noticeable in defensive sequences where his shot-blocking and contesting ability altered opponents’ offensive rhythm.

His return provides the Lakers with insurance behind Ayton while offering head coach JJ Redick flexibility in lineup construction. Hayes’ ability to slide between playing alongside bigger forwards or operating as a solo center in small-ball lineups adds versatility to the Lakers’ evolving roster.

The reunion also comes at a time when the Lakers are clearly prioritizing roster depth after last season’s playoff shortcomings. Following Ayton’s acquisition—viewed as a long-term investment in star power at the center position—the Lakers have doubled down on ensuring the bench unit is equipped with players capable of sustaining high-level play, especially in the physically demanding Western Conference.

For Hayes, this one-year deal represents both a show of faith from the organization and a significant opportunity to showcase his continued development on one of the NBA’s most visible stages. With Ayton commanding much of the attention from defenses, Hayes is expected to thrive in his bench role, capitalizing on open opportunities around the basket while reinforcing the Lakers’ defensive schemes.

Fans and analysts alike have praised the move, calling it a necessary retention for a franchise with championship aspirations. While Ayton provides an offensive upgrade with his scoring, rebounding, and floor-spacing capabilities, Hayes’ defensive prowess and elite finishing complement that skill set, ensuring the Lakers remain formidable regardless of lineup rotations.

Hayes’ return also reflects the franchise’s confidence in his trajectory. At just 24 years old, his best basketball remains ahead of him, and under the mentorship of veterans like LeBron James and alongside dynamic playmakers such as Luka Dončić—whom Ayton cited as a major draw to Los Angeles—Hayes is well-positioned to elevate his game even further.

The Lakers’ offseason moves now paint a clearer picture of their strategic direction: secure elite talent in the starting lineup, retain high-efficiency role players, and construct a roster capable of navigating the rigorous path to an NBA championship.

In addition to Ayton and Hayes, the Lakers have been active in restructuring their supporting cast, with several key negotiations still unfolding. However, the front office has made it clear that building depth at critical positions, especially behind their marquee additions, is a top priority.

Hayes’ statistical performance from last season underscores his potential impact:

• 72.2% Field Goal Percentage — Career-best mark, ranking among the league’s most efficient finishers.

• Top-10 in Field Goal Percentage Allowed on Layups and Dunks (250+ contests) — Cementing his status as an elite rim protector.

• 5.8 Points and 3.7 Rebounds Per Game — Productive in limited minutes, with room for growth in an expanded role.

His re-signing represents more than just depth—it solidifies the Lakers’ defensive identity and ensures continuity in a roster that blends youthful athleticism with veteran leadership.

As the Lakers gear up for what promises to be a high-stakes season, the return of Jaxson Hayes provides both stability and upside, critical components for a franchise that refuses to settle for anything less than title contention.

With the frontcourt tandem of Deandre Ayton and Jaxson Hayes secured, the Lakers are primed to enter the 2024-25 campaign with one of the league’s most imposing inside duos—a balance of offensive versatility, defensive grit, and explosive athleticism.

The NBA world will be watching as Los Angeles continues assembling the pieces of a roster designed for championship success. For Hayes, the opportunity to contribute on a grand stage is here, and the Lakers’ belief in his potential has never been more evident.