The Los Angeles Lakers belong to Luka Doncic now, and building around him is the sole focus moving forward. By adding Jake LaRavia, Marcus Smart, and Deandre Ayton, the first steps have been taken. On top of that, the Lakers are expected to re-sign Austin Reaves this summer.
However, Los Angeles needs to add wing defenders and reliable floor spacers in both the first and second units. Between Jarred Vanderbilt, Gabe Vincent, and Maxi Kleber, they have salaries to trade, and Dalton Knecht and a first-round pick could be used to sweeten the pot.
Rui Hachimura is owed $18 million this season, the last year on his contract. He is a quality role-player who could easily be flipped in a package for a star like Andrew Wiggins or even Giannis Antetokounmpo. However, only two teams should have any interest in him.
GettyLOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA – APRIL 05: LeBron James #6 and Rui Hachimura #28 of the Los Angeles Lakers react during a 125-118 loss to the LA Clippers at Crypto.com Arena on April 05, 2023 in Los Angeles, California. 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 Harry How/Getty Images)
Lakers’ Best Trade Partners Have No Interest in Hachimura
Last season, Hachimura averaged 13.1 points and five rebounds. His outside shot has been getting better and better, although his defense has never lived up to the hype.
This is a player who was compared to Kawhi Leonard earlier in his career, but has never been a truly standout defender on a good team. He is a solid floor spacer and physical presence, however, and would fit with some teams.
His two best landing spots have no interest in making a splashy deal with the Lakers.
“The examples I’ve made are looking at OKC and Minnesota,” explained insider Jovan Buha on his Buha’s Block podcast. “I think those are two teams with the ideal build for Rui, where you could slot him at the four in between an elite defensive center and an elite defensive wing.”
With Hachimura’s defensive shortcomings masked by Rudy Gobert and Jaden McDaniels or Chet Holmgren and Jalen Williams, he could thrive. However, are the Minnesota Timberwolves really interested in trading Julius Randle? Are the Oklahoma City Thunder willing to part ways with Isaiah Hartenstein, Alex Caruso, or Aaron Wiggins?
Those are the players who would have to be on the table. There’s a reason why the Thunder and Wolves have been mostly quiet in trade rumors this summer.
Los Angeles Lakers Haven’t Maximized Hachimura
Hachimura is expected to be the fifth starter once everyone is healthy. LeBron James is no longer an elite defender, and Ayton never was. Hachimura is not getting the chances to thrive that he might receive on another good team.
Now, should the Lakers be investing in him? No! He is an impending free agent who has never been much more than a role-player. If he ends up in a position to succeed, good for him, although maximizing Doncic needs to be the main priority.
If the Lakers can add a Mitchell Robinson or Robert Williams next summer and replace James with a 3-and-D wing, then keeping Hachimura is a must. However, if his trade value peaks this season, the Lakers should quickly look to move him.
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