LA Lakers General Manager Rob Pelinka recently re-signed center Jaxson Hayes to a one-year deal worth $3.45 million, which represents 120% of the veteran minimum salary. While this pay increase is modest, it limits the Lakers’ flexibility to fully utilize their Bi-Annual Exception (BAE), which is valued at $5.1 million. As a result, the Lakers only have about $3.9 million left from the exception to pursue free agents this offseason.
The team, after signing center Deandre Ayton and forward Jake LaRavia, still requires improvements, notably in wing depth. De’Anthony Melton is reportedly a target for the Lakers, with his expected market value close to the full Bi-Annual Exception amount. However, the Hayes contract reduces the funds available for such signings.
Impact on Roster Moves and Cap Flexibility
Because of Hayes’ salary, the Lakers face restrictions when trying to fully leverage the BAE. They would need to trade players or waive Jordan Goodwin, whose contract includes a partially guaranteed amount, to free up the remaining exception space. Despite this, the team is not at risk of losing Melton to other franchises, as Hayes’ pay bump strengthens LA’s hold on their current personnel.
Jaxson Hayes is positioned as Deandre Ayton’s primary backup rather than a third-string option, though many fans expressed dissatisfaction with his role. Hayes showed promise during February and March but was hampered by injury afterward and had minimal impact during the playoffs.
Fans React to the Decision and Franchise Strategy
The official signing announcement on Sunday sparked criticism from Lakers fans directed at Pelinka’s choice to pay Hayes above the veteran minimum. Many supporters had hoped for a different roster strategy that would free more room for significant upgrades.
Insights on the Lakers’ Strategy Behind Hayes’ Signing
The Lakers’ front office determined the center position needed reinforcement and addressed it by signing Deandre Ayton and Jaxson Hayes this offseason without sacrificing any trade assets. This approach is designed to maintain financial flexibility for future moves.
Lakers insider Eric Pincus explained that while the team had the option of a two-year deal using early bird rights, they opted for a one-year contract maximized just above the minimum salary, allowing them to avoid using the Bi-Annual Exception for Hayes.
This tactic prioritizes preserving cap space for 2027 free agency, which is expected to be a competitive market with several superstars potentially available. Maintaining long-term flexibility remains a core element of the Lakers’ roster management.
Still, whether the Lakers will clear additional salary by moving Jordan Goodwin or through trades to utilize the entire Bi-Annual Exception remains uncertain.