The Los Angeles Lakers extended their undefeated record in clutch-time games to 11-0 with a narrow 128-121 win over the Memphis Grizzlies, showcasing strong defense and key plays in the final minutes to secure the victory and improve their season record to 21-11.
JJ Redick apologized to Jaxson Hayes for benching him during the playoffs, which helped rebuild their relationship. Hayes, who returned to the Lakers on a one-year deal, expressed that Redick's apology and their conversations helped him move past the previous season's disappointments. Now, Hayes is set to be a key backup center, aiming to improve and contribute positively in the upcoming season, with a better understanding and communication within the team.
Jaxson Hayes has re-signed with the Los Angeles Lakers on a one-year contract, returning to a bench role as the team aims to maintain cap flexibility for future superstar acquisitions, particularly to pair with Luka Doncic.
Jaxson Hayes has signed a one-year deal with the Los Angeles Lakers that includes a rare full no-trade clause, making him one of the few NBA players with such a clause, following his third consecutive one-year contract with the team.
The Lakers have agreed to a one-year contract with free-agent center Jaxson Hayes to bring him back to the team, providing a backup center option alongside Deandre Ayton, after Hayes's mixed performance in the previous season and playoff struggles.
Jaxson Hayes has agreed to a one-year deal to return to the Los Angeles Lakers, where he previously emerged as a starting center, and will now serve as a backup to Deandre Ayton.
Lakers backup center Jaxson Hayes suffered a left ankle sprain during practice and will be reevaluated in 1-2 weeks. This adds to the Lakers' injury woes as another backup big man, Christian Wood, is also sidelined due to a knee issue. With both players out, the Lakers will rely on Christian Koloko to fill in at center alongside Anthony Davis, who has been cleared to play after an eye injury.
LeBron James, who controversially played in the All-Star Game despite missing the Lakers' last game due to injury, was seen shaking his head in reaction to Jaxson Hayes' emphatic dunk during the game against the Warriors. Despite Anthony Davis' efforts, the Lakers fell to the Warriors 128-110, with Stephen Curry leading the charge with 32 points.
The Los Angeles Lakers have made sensible free-agent decisions in NBA free agency, focusing on retaining their core players and making marginal upgrades to their roster. They successfully retained Austin Reaves, their top priority, by scaring off other teams with a four-year contract worth approximately $56 million. They also re-signed D'Angelo Russell at a fair price and added Jaxson Hayes as a backup center. The Lakers' offseason moves have solidified their roster and positioned them as one of the early winners of free agency.
The Los Angeles Lakers have agreed to a two-year deal with center Jaxson Hayes, filling their backup center position behind Anthony Davis. Standing at 6 feet 11 inches, Hayes is seen as a physical player who can play a similar role to Dwight Howard during the Lakers' 2020 championship season. Hayes, who spent his first four seasons with the New Orleans Pelicans, averaged 5.0 points and 2.8 rebounds per game last season. However, he also faced legal issues last year and was sentenced to community service, domestic-violence classes, and probation.
The Los Angeles Lakers have reached a two-year agreement with free-agent center Jaxson Hayes, with the second year being a player option. Hayes, who was the No. 8 pick in the 2019 draft, has averaged 7.5 points and 4 rebounds in his NBA career. The Lakers have also made several other signings and retained some of their own free agents, while still having two roster spots open.
Free agent center Jaxson Hayes has agreed to a two-year deal with the Los Angeles Lakers, including a player option for the second year. Hayes, who was drafted at No. 8 in 2019, has shown flashes of talent but has yet to establish himself as an everyday player. The 23-year-old is known for his athleticism and finishing ability but needs to improve his three-point shooting and determine his best defensive position. This signing adds to the Lakers' busy start to free agency, which also includes deals with Rui Hachimura, Gabe Vincent, Taurean Prince, and Cam Reddish.