Jaxson Hayes Returns To The Lakers On A One-Year Deal

In the aftermath of the Deandre Ayton acquisition, the Los Angeles Lakers have just agreed to terms on a deal to shore up the rest of their frontcourt rotation. According to ESPN's Shams Charania, Jaxson Hayes has officially re-joined the Lakers on a one-year deal.

"Free agent center Jaxson Hayes has agreed on a one-year deal to return to the Los Angeles Lakers," wrote Shams. "Hayes' agents, Bill Duffy and Marlon Harrison of WME Basketball, finalized a contract with Lakers president Rob Pelinka on Thursday. Hayes emerged as the Lakers' starting center last season and shot a career high 72.2% from the field and finished top-10 in field goal percentage allowed as a contesting defender on layups and dunks among players to contest 250+ shots. Now backs up new Lakers big man Deandre Ayton."

It's no secret that the Lakers have been looking to strengthen their frontcourt, and they managed to secure an upgrade at the position with Deandre Ayton, who signed a two-year, $16.6 million contract with the team this week. The deal also includes a no-trade clause.

Alongside LeBron James and Luka Doncic, Ayton is expected to provide a major boost with his size, rebounding, and finishing ability around the rim. Still, Rob Pelinka knew the Lakers needed more depth at center and, specifically, his team needed a reliable backup big man. Ultimately, he settled on Hayes after watching his play last year.

Hayes was the Lakers' primary starting center last season, and he played well in the role given that he's a backup center. In 56 games last season, he averaged 6.8 points, 4.8 rebounds, and 1.0 assists per game on 72.2% shooting.

He was crucial throughout the season, providing assistance and support for Anthony Davis. When Davis was ultimately traded for Luka Doncic in February, Hayes' role became even more important as he was the only one to provide a steady presence under the rim.

With Hayes down low, Doncic was able to make the connection for easy lobs, and it elevated the entire team. Defensively, Hayes's length and shot-blocking ability ensured they had some resistance in the frontcourt and someone to play in bigger matchups, like the Timberwolves and Nuggets.

This summer, nobody was sure if Hayes would return, especially since there were reports that he was unhappy in his role. Doubt on his return only grew after they signed Deandre Ayton. But after his admirable performance last season, Pelinka saw a place for Hayes in the rotation, and now he'll get to return next season to the same team in his proper role as a backup center.

It remains to be seen what else the Lakers will do this offseason, but they are already much improved with their signings over the past few months, which include some young players (Adou Thiero, Eric Dixon, R.J. Davis, Augustas Marciulionis, Arthur Kaluma) along with Deandre Ayton and Jaxon Hayes.