Lakers Unlikely to Extend Rui Hachimura Before Camp
lakers-unlikely-to-extend-rui-hachimura-before-camp
The Los Angeles Lakers are not expected to reach a contract extension with forward Rui Hachimura before training camp starts next month, according to reporter Jovan Buha on his latest “Buha’s Block” podcast.
“Based on the information I’ve gathered, I don’t anticipate a deal being completed in the next six weeks,” Buha told listeners, adding that the front office wants to keep its salary books flexible and evaluate whether Hachimura will open the season as a starter or the team’s sixth man.
Hachimura, 27, became extension-eligible when the NBA’s new league year began on July 6. He is entering the final season of an $18,259,259 contract and would become an unrestricted free agent next summer if no new agreement is reached.
The Lakers acquired the 6-foot-8 forward from the Washington Wizards in January 2023. Last season, he moved into the starting lineup full-time and averaged 13.1 points, 5.0 rebounds and 1.4 assists over 59 games while shooting 50.9% from the field, 41.3% from three-point range and 77.0% at the free-throw line.
L.A.’s long-term cap planning is a major factor in the decision-making process. The organization aims to preserve spending power for the summer of 2027, when a potentially star-studded free-agent class could hit the market. Luka Dončić currently holds the only significant Lakers contract that extends beyond the 2026-27 season, though forward Jarred Vanderbilt has a $13.3 million player option for that same offseason.
Whether through an in-season extension or a new deal in 2026 free agency, the Lakers will eventually have to weigh the value of retaining Hachimura against the desire to maximize cap space.
Source: Hoops Rumors
