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Lakers’ Jaxson Hayes and Luka Doncic during a game against the Utah Jazz in November 2025
Consistency at the center position has remained an ongoing challenge for the Los Angeles Lakers, and this season has done little to change that narrative.
The franchise signed former No. 1 overall pick Deandre Ayton last offseason with the hope that he could provide stability in the frontcourt and develop into a long-term fit alongside Luka Doncic.
Instead, Ayton’s performances have been inconsistent, and questions surrounding his role and long-term future in Los Angeles have only intensified.
Amid that uncertainty, backup center Jaxson Hayes has quietly begun to emerge.
His recent play, combined with an unexpected off-court development, may have strengthened his case to remain part of the Lakers’ plans moving forward.
Lakers Center Jaxson Hayes Strengthens Luka Doncic Connection
In recent weeks, reports surfaced indicating that Hayes was in the final stages of obtaining Slovenian citizenship, a move that would allow him to represent the national team alongside Doncic.
According to ESPN’s Brian Windhorst, Hayes has now completed that process, and the connection to Doncic could have meaningful implications for his future in Los Angeles.
“Jaxson Hayes completed the paperwork to become a Slovenian,” Windhorst said. “He can join the Slovenian national team for Luka, which I’d like to say is one of the smartest things Jaxson Hayes has ever done because I think he’s just secretly signed a contract extension.”
Windhorst’s comment was not meant literally, but rather as a reflection of how Hayes’ growing alignment with Doncic, both internationally and on the court, could strengthen his long-term standing within the organization.
Hayes originally joined the Lakers in 2023 on a two-year, $4.6 million deal before returning last offseason on a one-year, $3.4 million contract. He is currently set to become an unrestricted free agent this summer.
While he has long provided dependable minutes in a limited role, Hayes’ recent performances suggest he could be carving out a more significant place within the rotation.
Lakers Evaluating Center Position as Hayes’ Role Expands
Through 45 games this season, Hayes has averaged 6.9 points, 3.9 rebounds, and 1.0 assist while shooting an impressive 77.2% from the field, the highest mark of his career.
His production has increased notably in recent weeks. Over the past five games, a stretch in which Ayton has missed time through injury, Hayes has averaged 11.8 points, 4.8 rebounds, 2.3 assists, and 1.0 steal in just over 21 minutes per game.
His impact was particularly evident in the Lakers’ final game before the All-Star break against the Dallas Mavericks, where Hayes delivered one of his most complete performances of the season.
He finished with 16 points, seven rebounds, four assists, three steals, and one block, while posting a team-high plus-26 rating.
Despite his strong form, a permanent shift in the starting lineup may present challenges. Ayton remains an established starter and previously expressed frustration regarding his offensive role, which could complicate any immediate changes.
According to ESPN’s Bobby Marks, the Lakers are projected to have approximately $51 million in cap space this summer to pursue roster upgrades, even after factoring in Austin Reaves’ $20.9 million free agent hold.
Marks’ colleague Kevin Pelton has identified center as a key position of focus, signaling that further adjustments could be made regardless of Ayton’s $8.1 million player option.
For Hayes, however, his recent performances and growing connection with Doncic have already strengthened his position. Whether through continued development or a new contract, he has given the Lakers plenty to consider as they evaluate their future at center.
Matt Evans is a sports journalist from the United Kingdom, based in Paris, with over a decade of experience covering the NBA and wider global sport. More about Matt Evans
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