Arguably the most intriguing decision the Los Angeles Lakers have to make in terms of their own free agents this summer is that of Rui Hachimura. The forward is coming off a strong year with the team, and a stellar postseason in which he made NBA history with his 3-point shooting exploits.
But with the Lakers having so many players to make decisions on, while also looking at outside players who can improve this roster and lift the team into championship contention, there are some who believe Hachimura could wind up as the odd man out this summer, via Dave McMenamin of ESPN:
Several league sources told ESPN they believe Hachimura could be the odd man out and that he might need to explore the market to find a desired deal.
Losing Hachimura in free agency would be a rough loss for the Lakers should that be the case. He has made great improvements over the last couple of seasons not only as a shooter, but also as a rebounder and cutter offensively while offering solid defense as well. And when the Lakers needed players to step up in the playoffs in the midst of injuries to Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves, Hachimura was one of the main players to do so.
Hachimura made $18.2 million last season and will undoubtedly be looking for a raise from that number, and deservedly so. The Lakers have the money to pay him, but also must figure out what to do with other important pieces such as Marcus Smart, Luke Kennard and Jaxson Hayes, not to mention Reaves and LeBron James who are also unrestricted free agents.
The Lakers will also be looking to add other 3-and-D wings and make an upgrade at the center position with a big man who fits Doncic’s style. With so much going on, it is feasible that someone like Hachimura could fall through the cracks, especially if the Lakers are able to bring in a couple of wings whom they feel can provide more of what the team needs. But Hachimura has earned himself a nice contract and if he can’t find one with the Lakers, someone in the NBA will certainly pay him what he deserves.
Lakers reportedly prioritizing retaining two key free agents
The idea that Hachimura could be the odd man out does seem to contradict a previous rumor as the Lakers are reportedly prioritizing him and Hayes as the two players they want to retain in free agency.
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