Los Angeles Lakers unrestricted free agent center Jaxson Hayes hasn’t ruled out a return to the purple and gold next season. The 25-year-old Hayes, who’s spent the past two seasons with the Lakers, replied to an Instagram comment earlier this week hinting at a possible return in 2025-26.

Jaxson Hayes Saw Limited Playing Time In 2024-25

But even if Hayes decides to stay, that doesn’t mean the Lakers want him back.

Since Los Angeles doesn’t currently have an All-Star center — let alone a worthy, starting-caliber big man — on the roster, general manager Rob Pelinka has to be asking himself, “Is Hayes worth keeping?”

In 56 games (35 starts) this season, Hayes averaged 6.8 points, 4.8 rebounds, 1.0 assists, and 19.5 minutes per contest while shooting 72.2% from the field and 62.2% from the foul line.

During the first round of the NBA playoffs against the Minnesota Timberwolves, his playing time also plunged. The 7-footer didn’t play a single minute in Game 5 as the Lakers were eliminated.

Hayes has potential to be a lob threat alongside superstar Luka Doncic, but his struggles to provide consistent rebounding and rim protection has only encouraged the front office to look for new solutions.

Lakers Could Really Use Hayes As A Third-Stringer

The reality for Los Angeles is that young, healthy centers don’t grow on trees.

The Lakers tried to acquire Charlotte Hornets center Mark Williams at the deadline to help L.A. fill the hole made by trading away Anthony Davis, but the trade was rescinded after a failed physical.

In addition, the Lakers also don’t have cap space to sign Indiana Pacers free agent big man Myles Turner.

So instead of letting Hayes walk this offseason, the Lakers should consider re-signing him and using the Texas product as a third-stringer. The last thing this team needs is fewer options at the position.

L.A. Focused On Luka Doncic, LeBron James

More importantly, Hayes would have to be willing to play fewer minutes under head coach JJ Redick. His return is not a sure thing either way, as the Lakers are prioritizing the futures of Doncic and LeBron James.

Doncic is not a free agent but is eligible to sign up to a four-year, $229 million extension on Aug. 2. If a new contract is not reached, he will become a free agent in the summer of 2026.

Meanwhile, James has a $52.6 million player option for next season.

Both James and Dorian Finney-Smith have until June 29 to opt in for next season. If James opts in or signs a new contract with a comparable starting salary, the Lakers will be $1.3 million over the luxury tax.

The Lakers are $6.7 million below the first apron and will only have access to their $5.7 million non-tax midlevel exception, according to ESPN’s Bobby Marks.

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