Two Clubs Court Lakers Forward Rui Hachimura in Free Agency
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Los Angeles Lakers forward Rui Hachimura has drawn formal interest from the Minnesota Timberwolves and Golden State Warriors, league sources told reporter Jake Fischer on July 3, 2026. Both teams have reportedly made their pitches to the 28-year-old, who remains one of the top unsigned players on the market.
Hachimura is coming off a regular season in which he set a Lakers single-season record by shooting 44.3 percent from three-point range, his third consecutive year above 41 percent. He elevated his production during the 2026 playoffs, stepping up offensively while Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves dealt with injuries.
Minnesota, which recently traded for guard LaMelo Ball to partner with Anthony Edwards, could slot Hachimura into its starting power-forward role. Golden State is also seeking versatile contributors who can space the floor alongside Stephen Curry and Draymond Green.
The Brooklyn Nets and San Antonio Spurs have been mentioned as additional suitors, underscoring Hachimura’s league-wide value after his postseason performance. The Lakers have already committed most of their salary-cap space, but they could explore trades to retain the forward.
Hachimura, the last significant Lakers free agent still available, will decide his next destination once role clarity and contract terms align.
Source: LakersNation.com
