The Los Angeles Lakers believe their 2026 campaign will largely depend on forward Rui Hachimura successfully embracing a sixth-man role, according to a Jan. 26 report.
Team officials view Hachimura’s ability to provide consistent scoring and defense off the bench as a key factor in stabilizing the rotation and relieving pressure on the starting lineup. The organization hopes the 25-year-old’s versatility can spark second-unit production while allowing the coaching staff to manage minutes for veteran starters.
Hachimura, acquired by Los Angeles in a mid-season trade last year, has expressed a willingness to adapt to whatever role benefits the team. The Lakers expect his acceptance of bench duties to improve overall depth and strengthen their push for a deep postseason run.
Source: New York Post
