Jaxson Hayes is officially set to remain a member of the Los Angeles Lakers after signing a one-year contract worth $3.45 million, a figure that exceeds the veteran's minimum. This unexpected move restricts the Lakers' access to their bi-annual exception without further salary adjustments. However, Hayes has enhanced the team's roster flexibility by waiving his implicit no-trade clause, a rarity in the NBA and currently held by only LeBron James and Bradley Beal.

After averaging 6.8 points, 4.8 rebounds, and 0.9 blocks in approximately 19.5 minutes last season, Hayes transitioned into a starting role following the trade that sent Anthony Davis and brought Luka Doncic to LA. This season, he will assume a backup position behind Deandre Ayton, indicating a shift in the Lakers' center rotation.