The Los Angeles Lakers continue to bolster their frontcourt by signing center Jaxson Hayes to a one-year deal. This move comes right after the announcement that Deandre Ayton will join the team on a two-year contract. Hayes, previously drafted 8th overall in the 2019 NBA Draft by the New Orleans Pelicans, had an inconsistent start to his career. After joining the Lakers in 2023, he found himself unexpectedly thrust into a significant role following Anthony Davis' trade to the Dallas Mavericks.

During the last season, Hayes played in 56 games, starting 35 and averaging 6.8 points and 4.8 rebounds per game. Despite his solid contributions in the regular season, his playoff minutes were significantly reduced, leading to a disappointing absence in a crucial Game 5 against the Minnesota Timberwolves. With the Lakers' recent acquisitions, Hayes will need to prove his worth to maintain a substantial role in the rotation moving forward.