Lakers going all-in to re-sign Luka Doncic's $3M favorite teammate after LeBron James, Austin Reaves originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

The Los Angeles Lakers saw their season come to an end nearly a week ago, as they were no match for the Oklahoma City Thunder. Now, all of the focus has shifted toward the offseason and bringing major talent back to Los Angeles.

Obviously, the biggest name the Lakers want to retain is Austin Reaves, who is set to become a free agent. However, at the end of the season, he did not make his future plans clear.

“I'm gonna be honest, I've been around for five years and you guys know me pretty well... I don't think about much. I take life day by day and I'm just blessed to play for this organization... I don't think about what I'm gonna do in the future,” Reaves told the media.

Not only is the focus on Reaves, but also on LeBron James. After those two stars, it appears center Jaxson Hayes is the next player the Lakers are expected to prioritize.

“I think the next name [after Reaves and LeBron James], just because you're going to need this position, is Jaxson Hayes. Jaxson has now been here for a few seasons. And Jaxson is a member of the Slovenian national team. ... I would think he's a shoo-in to return,” ESPN’s Dave McMenamin said.

Luka Dončić would likely welcome Hayes back, as the two have developed strong chemistry on the court. Before Dončić announced that he would not be playing for the Slovenian national team this summer, he helped Hayes become involved with the program.

“Hayes is originally from Oklahoma, and given the talent on the Team USA, he was unlikely to ever get a chance to compete at the Olympic level, making this an incredible opportunity. From a bigger picture perspective, Hayes getting his Slovenian passport to team up with Luka may have just secured his Lakers future,” Lake Show Life’s Chris Lambert wrote.

The Lakers understand the importance of keeping players around whom Dončić is comfortable playing with. Combined with the fact that center is arguably the biggest roster need this offseason, there is growing confidence that Hayes could return to Los Angeles.

Hayes made a little over $3 million this past season. The Lakers are determined to get over the hump and build a roster capable of reaching the NBA Finals. Bringing back a player who is already familiar with the coaching staff, system, and core players could be a significant step in that process.

More NBA news:

• Lakers urged to cut ties with LeBron James for Thunder's $87M perfect Luka Doncic lob threat

• Lakers' LeBron James' legacy put under the microscope this summer no matter where he signs

• Lakers' Austin Reaves leaves future in LA up in the air after sudden change of heart comments

• Lakers have clear path to sign Thunder's $87M Luka Doncic lob threat after 'domino effect'