Lakers receive quick boost from Jaxson Hayes, still expected to pursue center in offseason

The Lakers received a boost on Sunday with the return of center Jaxson Hayes, who had missed their four-game road trip due to a bruised right knee.

Hayes, who tied his season-high with 19 points, shot 8-of-10 from the field. Notably, all of his baskets came off assists from Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves.

Lakers coach JJ Redick praised Hayes’ impact on the team, particularly in terms of spacing and creating opportunities for others.

“Just the vertical spacer is massive,” Redick said before Sunday’s win over the Suns, via Khobi Proce of the Orange County Register. “It’s not just in pick-and-rolls, but it’s on drives. Just the threat of that Jaxson has provided has been so good for Luka, for (LeBron James), for (Reaves), so excited to get that back.”

Looking ahead, the Lakers are expected to prioritize adding another center in the offseason. Whether it’s a potential starter or a backup to Hayes, Jovan Buha of The Athletic highlighted this as a key focus.

Los Angeles, of course, had acquired Mark Williams from Charlotte before the trade deadline, but ultimately rescinded the deal due to concerns about Williams’ physical condition.

Buha also noted that the Lakers plan to pursue contract extensions with Doncic and Reaves, and aim to reach new deals with James and Dorian Finney-Smith. Doncic is set to become eligible for a four-year extension worth an estimated $228.6 million in August.

Hayes, 24, is averaging 6.7 points and 4.6 rebounds in 41 appearances through Sunday. The Lakers (41-25) sit in fifth place in the Western Conference standings.

• More Lakers | All coverage from Hoops Wire