Los Angeles Lakers general manager Rob Pelinka said the organization’s relationship with forward Rui Hachimura will heavily influence negotiations when the 28-year-old hits unrestricted free agency this summer.
Hachimura’s three-year, $51 million contract expires at the end of the season, making him one of several Lakers poised to enter the open market. Since arriving from the Washington Wizards at the 2023 trade deadline, the former first-round pick has emerged as one of the NBA’s most efficient perimeter scorers and owns the highest playoff three-point percentage in league history at 51.6 percent.
“I’m incredibly proud of what Rui accomplished for us in the playoffs and in previous postseasons,” Pelinka said during his end-of-season press conference. “From the time I traded for him, he’s become incredibly comfortable here — with the coaches, the front office and our systems. Once Rui reaches that point of trust and comfort, his production grows exponentially.”
Pelinka added that Hachimura’s “overall professionalism and mindset” have made keeping him “really important” as the Lakers weigh roster decisions. The club had once appeared willing to let the forward walk, but his shooting next to Luka Dončić and his postseason scoring surge have strengthened the case for a new deal.
The Lakers’ ability to retain Hachimura may hinge on his market value; both sides would need to find common ground to extend his stay in purple and gold.
Separately, league sources have linked Los Angeles to New York Knicks center Mitchell Robinson. The Lakers are exploring long-term options in the frontcourt alongside Dončić, though Robinson’s injury history complicates any potential commitment.
Source: Lakers Nation
