Lakers’ Explosive Lob Threat Center Makes Stunning Contract Decision: Report…read more…
In a development that has sent ripples across the NBA landscape, the Los Angeles Lakers’ high-flying center has reportedly made a surprising decision regarding his contract status, catching fans and analysts off guard. According to league sources familiar with the situation, Jaxson Hayes—one of the Lakers’ most athletic and dynamic big men—has declined his player option for the 2025–26 season, opting to test free agency instead.
Hayes, who signed a two-year deal with the Lakers in the 2023 offseason, had a player option worth $2.3 million for the upcoming season. While many expected him to opt in and continue building chemistry with stars like LeBron James and Anthony Davis, the 7-footer has instead chosen to explore the open market. The move signals confidence in his evolving game and a belief that he can secure a more lucrative, multi-year contract—either with the Lakers or elsewhere.
Athletic Impact and Role
Hayes’ impact on the Lakers roster this past season was often subtle but significant. Known primarily for his rim-running, lob-catching ability, and shot-blocking instincts, Hayes carved out a role as a reliable energy big off the bench. His unique blend of size, speed, and vertical explosiveness provided a spark in second units and occasional starts when Davis rested or missed time.
He averaged 5.7 points, 3.9 rebounds, and 1.1 blocks in just under 14 minutes per game during the 2024–25 campaign. While those numbers don’t leap off the stat sheet, his efficiency and hustle were invaluable. Hayes shot over 70% from the field, mostly on dunks and put-backs, and consistently altered shots on the defensive end.
At 24 years old, the former lottery pick still has untapped potential. The Lakers believed in his upside when they added him to the roster, hoping he could develop into a long-term complement to Davis or serve as a small-ball 5 in faster lineups. Over the past season, Hayes showed enough flashes of growth—particularly in defensive awareness and pick-and-roll communication—to draw attention around the league.
Market Value and Free Agency Outlook
Hayes’ decision to opt out doesn’t necessarily indicate a departure from Los Angeles. In fact, league insiders believe that the Lakers remain interested in retaining him, potentially on a longer-term deal. The front office, led by Rob Pelinka, has prioritized roster continuity and young talent development amid aging stars and salary cap constraints.
“Jaxson knows what he brings to a team like the Lakers,” said one anonymous agent familiar with the situation. “He wants a bigger role and a contract that reflects his value, and this could be the offseason where he gets both.”
The free agent market for centers is relatively thin this year. Outside of marquee names and aging veterans, there’s a clear demand for athletic, defensive-minded bigs who can thrive in pick-and-roll schemes and guard multiple positions. Hayes fits that mold well. Several teams with cap flexibility—such as the Charlotte Hornets, Washington Wizards, and Detroit Pistons—could view Hayes as a developmental project with starting upside.
The Lakers, however, have Bird Rights on Hayes, giving them flexibility to exceed the cap to re-sign him if they choose. Whether they’ll commit to a multi-year deal remains uncertain, especially as the team assesses other offseason priorities including point guard depth, shooting, and Davis’ frontcourt partner.
Lakers’ Big Man Rotation in Flux
Hayes’ decision adds another layer of complexity to the Lakers’ evolving frontcourt. Davis remains the anchor of the defense and offense when healthy, but injuries and load management make it crucial to have dependable depth at center. Last season, the Lakers also experimented with Rui Hachimura at the 5 in small-ball lineups, while veteran backup Christian Wood saw inconsistent minutes.
The Lakers are also rumored to be interested in exploring trade and free agent options to bolster their front line. Names like Jonas Valančiūnas, Goga Bitadze, and Isaiah Hartenstein have surfaced as possible targets depending on cap maneuvering and roster shakeups.
Should Hayes ultimately leave in free agency, the Lakers will need to address the hole left by his departure—particularly his lob threat dimension, which few players in the league can replicate. His chemistry with guards like D’Angelo Russell and Austin Reaves made for several highlight-reel moments and was an underrated component of their second-unit success.
LeBron’s Influence and Timing
Another intriguing angle to the Hayes news is the timing—just days after LeBron James agreed to a two-year extension with the Lakers that will likely keep him in Los Angeles through the end of his career. With James still seeking a fifth championship, decisions like Hayes’ could factor into how the front office builds the roster around their aging superstar.
James has long appreciated teammates who play hard, know their role, and provide vertical spacing—traits Hayes embodies. It’s possible LeBron could advocate for Hayes’ return, especially if the Lakers are able to retain him on a team-friendly deal.
Conversely, Hayes’ departure could signal a broader shift in team construction, especially if the Lakers pivot toward more traditional centers or defensive specialists.
What’s Next?
The coming weeks will be telling. Free agency opens up the full range of possibilities for Hayes: a return to Los Angeles, a move to a rebuilding team with cap space and minutes to offer, or even a sign-and-trade scenario. His agent is expected to meet with multiple teams in Las Vegas during Summer League, where several back-channel conversations will shape the next phase of Hayes’ career.
For the Lakers, this decision marks one of several key offseason turning points. With LeBron locked in, the focus now shifts to maximizing the roster’s depth, athleticism, and two-way versatility.
If Hayes returns, it will likely be on a deal that reflects both his growth and his potential. If he departs, the Lakers must replace one of their most athletic and dynamic paint presences—a task easier said than done.
Either way, Hayes’ stunning contract decision just added another tw
ist to an already pivotal summer in Los Angeles.
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