The Los Angeles Lakers are at a crossroads this offseason, particularly when it comes to addressing their glaring need at the center position. After a disappointing playoff run where their lack of rim protection was exposed, the team is reportedly exploring all options—including a surprising potential reunion with a player head coach JJ Redick once benched during the postseason: Jaxson Hayes.
A Center Crisis in Los Angeles
Following the blockbuster trade that sent Anthony Davis away, the Lakers were left with Jaxson Hayes as their primary center. While Hayes proved serviceable during the regular season, his playoff performance against the Minnesota Timberwolves was a glaring weak point. Struggling to contain even non-offensive threats like Rudy Gobert, Hayes found himself outmatched, leading Redick to lose confidence and bench him during critical playoff moments. Austin Reaves came to Hayes’ defense, arguing that the blame shouldn’t fall entirely on the young center, but the damage was done.
With Hayes set to hit unrestricted free agency, many assumed his time in purple and gold was over. The Lakers hold early Bird rights, which allow them to re-sign him without using cap space, but the consensus was that both sides would move on. However, one NBA insider suggests that a return isn’t entirely off the table.
Insider Insight: A Possible Reunion?
John Hollinger of The Athletic recently weighed in on Hayes’ free agency prospects, noting that a reunion with the Lakers could still be in play. Despite the team’s desire to upgrade at the center position and Hayes’ likely interest in finding a team where he feels more valued, market realities might bring the two sides back together. Hollinger writes:
“The Lakers likely will try to do better here, and Hayes will likely try to find a place where he’s more appreciated, but I’m not sure we should rule out a reunion. Between L.A.’s early Bird rights on Hayes and the limited money on the market for supplemental centers like him, these two may find that continuing their uncomfortable marriage remains better than the alternative.”
The limited market for backup centers, combined with the Lakers’ ability to offer a cost-effective deal, could make re-signing Hayes a pragmatic move. A one-year minimum contract would allow Hayes to prove his worth as a rotation player while giving the Lakers a familiar, low-risk option.
Hayes’ Fit with Luka Doncic
The arrival of Luka Doncic in Los Angeles last season provided a glimpse of Hayes’ potential. Doncic, known for elevating the play of big men, helped unlock a more effective version of Hayes. A comparison of Hayes’ stats before and after Doncic’s arrival highlights the impact:
|
Stats |
Before Luka Doncic (2024-25) |
After Luka Doncic (2024-25) |
|---|---|---|
|
Points |
5.5 |
8.1 |
|
Rebounds
|
4.3 |
5.3 |
|
Assists |
0.9 |
1.1 |
|
Steals |
0.5 |
0.6 |
|
Blocks |
1.0 |
0.9 |
|
Field Goal Percentage |
64.3% |
75.6% |
Hayes’ improved efficiency and production alongside Doncic suggest he can thrive as a complementary piece in the right system. While not starter-caliber for a championship contender, his athleticism and finishing ability make him a viable bench option.
A Chance for Redemption?
Hayes’ frustration with the Lakers is understandable. His reduced playoff minutes likely hurt his free agency value, and he may feel unfairly scapegoated for the team’s postseason struggles. However, a one-year deal with the Lakers could be a strategic move for both sides. For Hayes, it’s an opportunity to showcase his skills on a high-profile team, potentially setting him up for a bigger contract in 2026. For the Lakers, it’s a low-cost way to maintain depth while they search for a more permanent solution at center.
What’s Next for the Lakers?
While the Lakers are expected to pursue more established centers, the reality of their cap situation and the free agent market may force them to settle for familiar faces like Hayes. Redick’s decision to bench him in the playoffs raised eyebrows, but a fresh season could offer a chance to rebuild trust. If Hayes returns, he’ll need to prove he can handle the demands of a contending team’s rotation while capitalizing on his chemistry with Doncic.
The idea of bringing back a player Redick once “lost faith in” is certainly shocking, but in the NBA, pragmatism often trumps pride. Could Jaxson Hayes be the unlikely piece to help the Lakers take a step forward? Only time will tell.