Lakers Insider Speculates on Jaxson Hayes' Slovenian Citizenship Bid

ESPN's Brian Windhorst suggests Hayes may have secretly signed a contract extension with the Lakers.

Published on Feb. 25, 2026

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ESPN NBA insider Brian Windhorst is speculating that Los Angeles Lakers forward Jaxson Hayes' recent application for Slovenian citizenship, which would allow him to play alongside Luka Doncic on the Slovenian national team, could signal that Hayes has secretly signed a contract extension with the Lakers. Windhorst believes this move indicates good things about Hayes' future prospects in Los Angeles, despite his mixed performance with the team this season.

Why it matters

The Lakers have been looking to retool their roster this offseason, and Hayes' potential alignment with Doncic could make him a valuable piece moving forward, especially if LeBron James' future with the team remains uncertain.

The details

Hayes has shown flashes of potential this season with the Lakers due to his athleticism, but has also struggled with decision-making and defense at times. Windhorst's theory suggests the Lakers may see Hayes as a long-term fit alongside Doncic, who the team is expected to build around in the future.

  • On February 19, 2026, reports surfaced that Jaxson Hayes was applying for Slovenian citizenship.

The players

Jaxson Hayes

A forward for the Los Angeles Lakers who has shown promise but also inconsistency this season.

Brian Windhorst

An ESPN NBA insider who speculated on the implications of Hayes' Slovenian citizenship application.

Luka Doncic

A Slovenian professional basketball player who plays for the Dallas Mavericks.

LeBron James

A veteran forward for the Los Angeles Lakers whose future with the team remains uncertain.

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What they’re saying

“Jaxson Hayes completed the paperwork to become a Slovenian. 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.”

— Brian Windhorst, ESPN NBA Insider (Hoop Collective Podcast)

What’s next

The Lakers will next play the Los Angeles Clippers on Friday, as they continue to evaluate their roster and prepare for the upcoming offseason.

The takeaway

This speculation about Jaxson Hayes' future with the Lakers highlights the team's ongoing efforts to build a roster around Luka Doncic, while also addressing the uncertainty surrounding LeBron James' future. Hayes' potential alignment with Doncic could make him a valuable piece, but the Lakers will need to carefully assess his fit and development as they look to retool their team.