5 roster moves the New Orleans Pelicans need to make this offseason

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NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – MARCH 26: Jaxson Hayes #10 of the New Orleans Pelicans reacts after being fouled during the first quarter of an NBA game against the San Antonio Spurs at Smoothie King Center on March 26, 2022 in New Orleans, Louisiana. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Sean Gardner/Getty Images)

5 roster moves the New Orleans Pelicans need to make this offseason: 2. Extend Jaxson Hayes

After being taken with pick eight in the 2019 NBA draft, Jaxson Hayes has not managed to fulfill his potential as of yet. He has played behind Steven Adams and Jonas Valanciunas during his career and this has impacted his numbers.

He averaged 9.3 points, 4.5 rebounds, and 0.8 blocks in 20.0 minutes per game. Hayes played in 70 games for the season, starting in 28 of them. One of the main benefits that Hayes bought to the floor was shooting 61.6 percent from the floor. This level of efficiency is a strength for a player who comes off the bench more than he starts.

Hayes is still developing, he is still just 21 years old. With more time spent in the gym, Hayes is going to build more muscle which is going to help his post-play. He will also be able to hold stronger players out on defense. On top of that, his understanding of the game is going to continue to expand.

Hayes is eligible to sign his rookie extension and at his age, the Pelicans would be wise to sign him to a team-friendly deal. If he can develop into a nice rotation piece, then this will benefit them for the next few years. If he does not mesh well with Williamson, then his deal should be easy to trade.

Next: Move #3