The Los Angeles Lakers aren't expected to lose any high impact free agents if LeBron James exercises his player option as expected. This leaves the Lakers only Alex Len, Jaxson Hayes, and Markieff Morris as notable names poised to hit free agency this offseason. The most difficult decision is going to be the future of Hayes. After an exciting final stretch of the season, the center faded at the absolute worst moment. This, along with the concerning lack of size, demands that the franchise look at other possible answers.
Jaxson Hayes is a very limited player due to his inability to shoot and lanky frame that can be targeted by heavier centers and forwards. It is time to close the book on Jaxson Hayes in Los Angeles and look for better defenders and lob options for Luka Dončić. Hayes had some solid moments in his tenure, but the sour taste from the Lakers' swift playoff exit demands the center find a new landing spot.
Los Angeles Must Turn the Page on Jaxson Hayes, Re-Signing Only One Notable Free Agent
Laker champion Markieff Morris was a late addition to the bench and in an extended depth role. Morris wasn't playing a role in the bench rotation other than in garbage time. However, the presence of the established veteran and his level of toughness was a needed addition. While both Len and Hayes shouldn't be considered, the team should see if Morris is willing to return in the exact same role.
This doesn't mean giving the veteran any meaningful minutes or expecting an impact. Rather, you're adding a respected veteran who helps aid bench depth and gives you much-needed size and toughness at the bottom of your bench.
The Lakers will need to add at least two notable names to the center position if they're serious about contending for a championship in the 2025-26 season. How the LA offseason is going to be defined is on how Rob Pelinka chooses to answer this question. The front office will benefit from having very little concern about retaining its own players.
Even Morris is an afterthought of a re-signing. There is no need for urgency with any of the team's pending free agents, allowing the front office to completely focus on a pivotal offseason where all options are going to be on the table.