Lakers surrender top chip, altering NBA!

In a stunning development that could reshape the Los Angeles Lakers’ trajectory for the 2025-26 NBA season, the team faces a critical decision regarding their most valuable trade asset, Rui Hachimura. The 27-year-old forward, who has emerged as a reliable and efficient contributor, is in the final year of his three-year, $51 million contract. With the season tipping off on October 21, the Lakers must decide whether to extend Hachimura’s contract or let him enter unrestricted free agency next summer. However, extending his contract could come at a steep cost: losing their ability to trade him before the February 6 trade deadline, effectively surrendering their most valuable trade chip and altering the NBA landscape.

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Hachimura’s Value to the Lakers

Since joining the Lakers in 2023, Rui Hachimura has proven himself as a versatile and efficient forward. Over his two full seasons with the team, he has shot an impressive 50% from the field and 40% from three-point range, establishing himself as a reliable scoring option. Last season, Hachimura averaged 13.1 points and 5.0 rebounds across 59 games, starting in 57 of them. His postseason performance was even more notable, with 14.8 points and 4.6 rebounds per game in the Lakers’ five playoff contests.

Hachimura’s ability to stretch the floor, defend multiple positions, and contribute on both ends makes him a coveted asset in today’s NBA. His $18.3 million expiring contract for the 2025-26 season further enhances his trade value, as teams seeking immediate impact players or salary cap flexibility could view him as an ideal target.

The Extension Dilemma

The Lakers’ front office, led by general manager Rob Pelinka, has emphasized “optionality” as a core principle for the 2025-26 roster. With only four players—none of whom are Hachimura—locked into guaranteed contracts for the 2026-27 season, Los Angeles has built a roster with significant flexibility to make moves. However, Hachimura’s contract situation presents a dilemma that could handcuff the team’s trade ambitions.

If Hachimura signs an extension before the season begins, NBA rules prohibit trading him for six months, pushing his trade eligibility well past the February 6 trade deadline. This restriction would severely limit the Lakers’ ability to package him in deals for star players or other roster upgrades. As NBA insider Jovan Buha noted on his podcast, “If he does sign that [extension], he is ineligible to be traded for 6 months, which would take him well past the February 6th trade deadline.”

Buha acknowledged Hachimura’s value, stating, “I think he’s worthy of an extension. I think he’s a pretty good player, but at the same time, it does limit their optionality there.” Without an extension, Hachimura remains a prime trade chip, allowing the Lakers to explore blockbuster deals before the deadline.

Pelinka’s Strategy and the Lakers’ Trade Assets

Pelinka’s reluctance to discuss Hachimura’s contract situation during a recent media session suggests the Lakers are carefully weighing their options. “We feel strongly about Rui, and we don’t make it a practice when we’re in discussions with someone under contract to talk about it,” Pelinka said, sidestepping direct commentary. This cryptic response underscores the delicate balance between retaining a valuable player and preserving trade flexibility.

Beyond Hachimura, the Lakers’ other trade assets include Gabe Vincent, Maxi Kleber, rookie Dalton Knecht, one tradable first-round pick (either 2031 or 2032), and a 2030 pick swap. While these assets hold value, none match Hachimura’s combination of youth, production, and expiring contract status. Losing the ability to trade him could significantly hinder the Lakers’ ability to pursue a transformative deal, especially in a competitive Western Conference.

The Ripple Effect on the NBA

The Lakers’ decision on Hachimura’s extension could send shockwaves through the NBA. If they extend him and lose trade flexibility, rival teams may capitalize on Los Angeles’ limited options, potentially outbidding them for star players available at the deadline. Conversely, if the Lakers hold off on an extension, Hachimura’s expiring contract could become the centerpiece of a blockbuster trade, reshaping the team’s roster and shifting the balance of power in the league.

With new additions like Deandre Ayton, Marcus Smart, and Jake LaRavia, the Lakers are already positioned as championship contenders for the 2025-26 season. However, their ability to make a game-changing move midseason may hinge on Hachimura’s contract status. As Buha speculated, “I’m operating under the assumption that he’s not going to sign the extension and that he’s gonna be a free agent next summer.” If this holds true, the Lakers could leverage Hachimura’s value to pursue a star who elevates their title chances.

What’s Next for the Lakers?

As the October 21 season opener approaches, the Lakers face a pivotal moment. Extending Hachimura secures a proven contributor but sacrifices trade flexibility, potentially locking the team into their current roster construction. Allowing him to play out his contract keeps the door open for a midseason trade but risks losing him for nothing in free agency next summer.

The decision will not only shape the Lakers’ season but also influence the broader NBA landscape. Will Los Angeles hold firm, using Hachimura as their trump card in a high-stakes trade? Or will they prioritize long-term stability with an extension, potentially surrendering their most valuable asset? One thing is certain: the Lakers’ next move will reverberate across the league, leaving fans and analysts alike watching closely.

Credit: AP – Scanpix