Who is Jaxson Hayes?
Jaxson Hayes is an American professional basketball player who plays the center position. Standing 7 feet tall, Hayes is known for his elite athleticism, shot-blocking ability, and finishing around the rim.
After starring at the University of Texas, he entered the 2019 NBA Draft and quickly became one of the league’s most explosive young big men.
Quick Facts
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Jaxson Reed Hayes |
| Birthdate | May 23, 2000 |
| Age | 26 (2026) |
| Height | 7-foot-0 (2.13 m) |
| Weight | 220 lbs (100 kg) |
| Position | Center |
| College | Texas |
| Draft | 2019 NBA Draft – Round 1, Pick No. 8 |
| NBA Debut | 2019 |
Jaxson Hayes Lakers Career
Hayes signed with the Los Angeles Lakers before the 2023-24 season, giving the team an athletic backup center behind Anthony Davis.
During his three seasons in Los Angeles, he became an effective lob threat, transition finisher, and energy player off the bench. His chemistry with the Lakers’ guards made him a valuable rotational piece, especially in pick-and-roll situations.
His best season with the franchise came during the 2025-26 campaign when he produced career-best efficiency while receiving increased minutes. Hayes appeared in 66 games and averaged:
- 7.5 points per game
- 4.1 rebounds
- 0.8 blocks
- 75.6% field-goal percentage
Although his offensive game remained relatively simple, his elite finishing and rim protection made him one of the NBA’s most efficient reserve centers.
Jaxson Hayes Contract
Hayes entered the 2025-26 season on a one-year contract worth approximately $3.45 million with the Lakers after re-signing in free agency. The deal made him an unrestricted free agent following the season.
New Jazz Agreement
During the opening days of the 2026 NBA free agency, Hayes reportedly agreed to sign with the Utah Jazz.
According to multiple reports, the agreement includes:
- Two-year contract
- Worth $12 million
- Second year is a team option
The move gives Hayes a larger opportunity while providing Utah with an experienced and athletic frontcourt option.
Why Did Hayes Leave the Lakers?
The Lakers underwent major roster changes during the 2026 offseason.
Reports indicate Los Angeles prioritized acquiring a new starting center, completing a deal for Walker Kessler while allowing Hayes to depart in free agency. Utah, meanwhile, sought additional center depth following its own roster reshuffle.
For Hayes, the Jazz agreement offers:
- Increased role
- Multi-year security
- Opportunity to earn more consistent minutes
Jaxson Hayes Stats
NBA Career Statistics (through 2025-26)
| Category | Average |
|---|---|
| Points | Around 7 PPG |
| Rebounds | Around 4 RPG |
| Blocks | Around 1 BPG |
| Field Goal % | Over 65% |
| Position | Center |
Hayes has consistently ranked among the NBA’s most efficient finishers because the majority of his scoring comes at the rim.
His strengths include:
- Rim running
- Lob finishing
- Offensive rebounding
- Shot blocking
- Athleticism
Areas for improvement include:
- Perimeter shooting
- Post scoring
- Defensive discipline
- Passing
Jaxson Hayes Trade History
Hayes has experienced several significant moves during his NBA career.
2019 Draft Night
Although selected eighth overall in the 2019 NBA Draft, Hayes’ rights were acquired by the New Orleans Pelicans as part of a draft-night trade involving the Atlanta Hawks.
Free Agency Move to Lakers
Following four seasons in New Orleans, Hayes signed with the Los Angeles Lakers in 2023 as a free agent.
Move to Utah Jazz
Instead of re-signing with Los Angeles in 2026, Hayes reportedly accepted a two-year contract with the Utah Jazz, beginning the next phase of his NBA career.
Playing Style
Hayes is one of the NBA’s premier vertical athletes.
His game is built around:
- Pick-and-roll finishing
- Alley-oop dunks
- Rim protection
- Transition offense
- High-energy defense
He rarely creates offense for himself but excels when paired with elite playmakers who can find him above the rim.
Strengths
- Elite athleticism
- Excellent finisher
- High shooting percentage
- Strong rebounder
- Good shot blocker
- Effective pick-and-roll partner
Weaknesses
- Limited shooting range
- Can struggle against stronger centers
- Fouls too frequently
- Limited offensive versatility
Future Outlook
The Utah Jazz are betting that Hayes can continue building on the progress he made with the Lakers.
If he earns regular minutes, he could become an important rotation center while still having room to develop at just 26 years old. His combination of size, mobility, and efficiency makes him an intriguing long-term piece for Utah’s rebuilding roster.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Which team does Jaxson Hayes play for now?
Jaxson Hayes has reportedly agreed to join the Utah Jazz on a two-year contract during the 2026 NBA free agency period.
What was Jaxson Hayes’ Lakers contract?
Hayes played the 2025-26 season on a one-year contract worth approximately $3.45 million with the Lakers.
Why did Jaxson Hayes leave the Lakers?
Los Angeles reshaped its frontcourt during free agency, while Hayes accepted a larger two-year deal with the Utah Jazz.
What are Jaxson Hayes’ strengths?
His biggest strengths are athleticism, rim protection, rebounding, and finishing around the basket.
Was Jaxson Hayes traded?
Hayes entered the NBA through a draft-night trade involving his draft rights, later signed with the Lakers as a free agent, and in 2026 left Los Angeles to join the Jazz in free agency rather than via a trade.
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