The Lakers’ lack of action speaks volumes.
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Los Angeles Lakers, Rui Hachimura | Michael Hickey/GettyImages
The Los Angeles Lakers are not sold on Rui Hachimura being a long-term fit next to Luka Doncic because they have not extended his contract. Jovan Buha made it clear the franchise isn’t expected to reach an agreement before opening night. Hachimura is in the final year of his deal and could walk in free agency next summer.
The 27-year-old is in his prime and has become a stout role player for the Lakers. He has shot 40.2 percent from 3-point range over his 160 games with Los Angeles and has improved defensively. It is easy to see why the franchise would view him as a building block, but they clearly aren’t. Hachimura is best as a power forward and may not be the cleanest defensive fit next to Luka.Do not be surprised to see the 6’8 forward get demoted this season. The Lakers have Luka, LeBron James, Austin Reaves, and Deandre Ayton locked into their starting five. Head coach JJ Redick needs a perimeter defensive stopper with that group, which should give Marcus Smart the edge to start over Rui. If that happens, the Lakers’ stance will be further proven.
Hachimura will be an unrestricted free agent next summer, and as many as ten teams could have cap space. Getting a 6’8 forward capable of shooting 40 percent from three and guarding multiple positions is enticing. Expect some team to offer $20-25 million per year, and the Lakers appear comfortable with him walking at that price.
Los Angeles is focused on flexibility as they attempt to build their roster around Luka. They should search for a center upgrade, 3-and-D wings, and a versatile two-way guard to play next to Doncic in the backcourt. The Lakers can create cap space to add in free agency or via trade. Pelinka knows the pressure is on. Don’t be surprised to see the Lakers make a bold move or two next summer.
Rui Hachimura could return. Much will depend on how he plays this season. Does he become the next wing that thrives playing off Doncic, or does the fit prove problematic? Rui is playing for a massive payday, so fans can bet he will be locked in. Someone will give him a massive contract, but the Lakers are far from a guarantee to be the franchise.
Los Angeles is clearly viewing Hachimura as a luxury moving forward. He has played a key role since being acquired from the Wizards, but that was mostly in the LeBron James and Anthony Davis version of the Lakers. The franchise has shifted to building around Luka, and Hachimura’s fit is unproven. The Lakers are not extending him before seeing more, which could mean he leaves in free agency next summer.
The Los Angeles Lakers’ new era promises to be exciting, but Rui Hachimura may not be part of it for long. If they don’t plan to extend him, LA would be wise to trade him before the deadline to get something in return. Their actions speak volumes here, and only a contract extension can save Rui Hachimura from departing in the next year.