Lakers extend Jaxson Hayes through 2025-2026 season as Deandre Ayton’s backup

Jaxson Hayes stays with the Los Angeles Lakers. The 25-year-old American center has signed a new one-year contract with the California franchise, becoming the backup for new recruit Deandre Ayton.

Free agent center Jaxson Hayes has agreed on a one-year deal to return to the Los Angeles Lakers, sources tell ESPN. Hayes’ agents, Bill Duffy and Marlon Harrison of WME Basketball, finalized a contract with Lakers president Rob Pelinka on Thursday. pic.twitter.com/fZOeqVyo9u

— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) July 3, 2025

The Los Angeles Lakers officially announced Thursday the extension of Jaxson Hayes for an additional season. The 7-foot center has committed to a one-year contract, according to information revealed by Shams Charania of ESPN. This signing comes one day after the arrival of Deandre Ayton, who signed a two-year contract with the franchise.

Hayes, only 25 years old, delivered a solid regular season despite persistent criticism from fans. In 56 appearances, the former 8th draft pick averaged 6.8 points and 4.8 rebounds, with a record shooting efficiency of 72.2%, the highest of his NBA career.

Notable defensive impact but disappointing playoffs

The American center also distinguished himself defensively, ranking in the NBA top 10 in allowed field goal percentage on layups and dunks among players who contested more than 250 shots. His offensive production particularly increased after Luka Doncic’s arrival via the Anthony Davis trade. The Slovenian guard, a pick-and-roll specialist, regularly involved Hayes in offensive sequences.

However, his playoff contribution was almost non-existent. Starting in the first four games of the series lost 4-1 against the Minnesota Timberwolves, Hayes never played more than 10 minutes per game and didn’t appear in Game 5.

Unprecedented no-trade clause for Hayes

This extension marks Hayes’ third consecutive one-year contract with the Lakers. According to NBA collective bargaining rules, this particular situation automatically grants him a complete no-trade clause. A rare privilege for a player of his caliber, as only LeBron James and Bradley Beal benefited from this protection last season.

Moving forward, Hayes will play off the bench behind Ayton in the Lakers’ rotation. His familiarity with the California system and potential at age 25 make him a safe choice for Los Angeles, which is betting on continuity to strengthen its frontcourt for the 2025-2026 season.