The Los Angeles Lakers face a critical upcoming season, with significant attention on Rui Hachimura’s performance and how it may determine his future with the team. As trade discussions circulate ahead of the 2024 campaign, Hachimura’s role and impact could shape whether he remains a key part of the Lakers’ plans.
The Lakers’ Star Power and Emerging Challenges
The Lakers head into the season led by two high-profile stars: LeBron James and Luka Doncic. Doncic, at just 26 years old, represents the team’s current and future cornerstone. While much of the spotlight will naturally focus on these stars, other players, including Hachimura, must elevate their contributions for the team’s success.
Hachimura, who is approaching the final year of his three-year, $51 million contract, stands at a crossroads. At 27 years old, he not only holds significant value on the court but also presents a strong trade asset if the Lakers decide to reshape their roster. Despite persistent trade rumors, no deal has materialized yet.
Hachimura’s Performance Could Secure His Place in LA
According to Dan Woike of The Athletic, Hachimura’s upcoming season will be pivotal in deciding his tenure with the Lakers. If he continues to improve, especially on the defensive end without sacrificing his shooting, the Lakers might consider extending his stay, even if it limits future financial flexibility.
“Another good season and you could argue that he should be with the Lakers for another multi-year stint, even if it eats into some of their future flexibility. But if the defensive gains weren’t real and the shooting suffers (it’s been two full seasons of being really good), keeping the books clean becomes the better option.” —Dan Woike, The Athletic
This season, Hachimura is set to earn $18 million, and his contract is expiring, making him a prime candidate for trade discussions. The Lakers were unable to finalize a trade over the summer, but the possibility remains as the season progresses. Should Hachimura prove indispensable, the Lakers may prioritize retaining him over exploring trade options.
Consistent Contributions and Areas for Growth
Over 160 games with Los Angeles, Hachimura has averaged 12.6 points, 4.7 rebounds, 1.2 assists, and 0.6 steals per game, while shooting 51.7 percent from the field and 40.2 percent from three-point range, playing nearly 28 minutes on average. These statistics demonstrate his scoring efficiency and offensive reliability. However, his defensive consistency remains an area where improvement could solidify his value to the Lakers.
With a timeline that aligns closely with Doncic’s, Hachimura has the potential to be a top-five contributor on a championship-contending roster. Enhanced defensive skill combined with his shooting prowess would make him a cornerstone player for the Lakers moving forward.
Implications for the Lakers and Hachimura’s Role
The trajectory of Hachimura’s season is critical not only for his individual career but also for the Lakers’ strategic decisions. Maintaining a balance between competitive payroll management and building a strong, cohesive team will challenge the Lakers’ front office. A standout season from Hachimura could secure his position as a long-term teammate alongside LeBron James and Luka Doncic.
As the Lakers prepare for the 2024 season, all eyes will be on Hachimura to see whether he can rise to the occasion and shape his Lakers future amid swirling trade rumors.