Rui Hachimura has been a staple in trade talks for the Los Angeles Lakers over the past couple of seasons. Despite his undeniable value to the team, his contract often seemed like a tempting asset for potential trades.
Having weathered two intense trade deadlines, Hachimura finally finds himself in a position of stability, as the Lakers chose to keep him on the roster.
Hachimura, now 28, is in the last year of a three-year, $51 million deal he inked in 2023. Many expected the Lakers to trade him for long-term assets due to his expiring $18 million contract in 2025-26. Yet, against expectations, no trade occurred.
Speaking with ESPN’s Dave McMenamin, Hachimura shed light on the constant trade buzz surrounding the Lakers. He expressed relief that the passing of the trade deadline brings a newfound sense of stability to the team.
"With the Lakers, we get a lot of rumors," Hachimura said. "But a lot of times, those rumors are bulls---...
We have the time now where it's like, 'OK, this is our group now.' Because we know that now.
So we're ready for what's next."
Although free agency is on the horizon, Hachimura now has the chance to play without the looming threat of being traded.
Hachimura has been a vital part of the Lakers during his four-year stint. While he’s often been tasked with roles beyond his natural position, he’s adapted well, evolving into a solid two-way player.
This season, Hachimura is putting up 12.1 points per game with shooting splits of .511/.447/.735, and he's recognized as one of the top defensive wings in the league.
According to Basketball Index, he ranks impressively in several defensive categories: 89th percentile in off-ball chaser defense, 84th in screener mobile defense, and 74th in perimeter isolation defense. These stats highlight his prowess in off-ball situations, pick and roll defense, and one-on-one matchups.
While his upcoming unrestricted free agency adds intrigue, for now, Hachimura and the Lakers can focus on the present, knowing their roster is set for the playoffs. The trade rumors can take a backseat, allowing everyone to concentrate on the season ahead.
This level of certainty is a rare luxury for Hachimura in Los Angeles, but with the trade deadline behind him, he can confidently continue his journey as a Laker.