Rui Hachimura on the Trade Block: Lakers Reportedly Seeking First-Round Pick Ahead of Deadline
With the NBA trade deadline fast approaching on February 5, the Los Angeles Lakers are once again at the center of the rumor mill - and this time, it’s Rui Hachimura who’s drawing attention. The Lakers are reportedly exploring trade options for the 27-year-old forward, and they’ve set the bar high: a first-round pick in return.
That asking price has raised a few eyebrows around the league, especially considering Hachimura’s current situation. He’s in the final year of a three-year, $51 million deal, and with his $18.2 million salary set to come off the books this summer, he’s poised to hit unrestricted free agency. That makes him a potential rental for any team looking to bolster its bench or add size and scoring on the wing - but also a gamble if they don’t intend to re-sign him.
Despite the Lakers’ willingness to listen to offers, there hasn’t been a groundswell of interest reported so far. Several hypothetical trade packages have surfaced, though.
One scenario has Hachimura - along with other assets - heading to Portland in exchange for Jerami Grant, a proven 3-and-D wing who could immediately help L.A.'s perimeter defense and spacing. Another mock deal includes Hachimura and Gabe Vincent being shipped to Indiana for Buddy Hield, a high-volume sharpshooter who would give the Lakers a much-needed boost from beyond the arc.
Through all the speculation, Hachimura has continued to embrace his role off the bench this season. Speaking earlier this week, he made it clear that winning - not stats - is what drives him.
“A lot of people think about stats and all that, but for me it’s like winning,” Hachimura said. “That’s gonna help us to everybody get paid.
And especially with this second unit, I get more touches too. … I don’t mind.
It’s more so like, who’s finishing the game? Or who’s playing more?
For me, that’s more important.”
That mindset has been evident in his recent performances. In the Lakers’ 129-118 win over the Bulls on Monday, Hachimura came off the bench and delivered a strong showing: 23 points, two rebounds, and an assist. It’s the kind of outing that highlights his value as a versatile scorer who can step up when needed - especially in a second-unit role.
One of the league’s biggest stars took notice. Luka Dončić, fresh off being named Western Conference Player of the Week for the second time this season, praised Hachimura’s impact following the win.
“He’s been great,” Dončić said. “Obviously, coming back from injury is not easy.
But he’s been playing amazingly. So we need him out here every time, and the way he has been playing is awesome.”
Dončić had a monster night himself, finishing with 46 points, 11 assists, and seven rebounds. In doing so, he joined elite company - becoming just the third player in NBA history to score 2,000 points in his first 65 games with a franchise, alongside legends Wilt Chamberlain and Walt Bellamy.
As for Hachimura, his future in Los Angeles remains uncertain. But if he keeps producing like this, the Lakers might have a tougher decision to make than they anticipated. Whether he stays or goes, his ability to contribute in meaningful moments has made him a valuable piece of the puzzle - and potentially, a coveted asset as the trade deadline looms.