Rui Hachimura is in a contract-year with the Lakers, with extension chances deemed unlikely in the immediate six-week window. His near-elite shooting efficiency and versatility keep him as a valuable starter or strong sixth man, shaping potential cap moves for L.A. while his future remains tethered to how the roster evolves around LeBron and a possible star target in 2026.

Hachimura is pegged as a stable starter, providing scoring, spacing and energy on the wing. His presence helps create easier looks for James and Reaves while keeping the defense honest. Fantasy-wise, Hachimura should deliver solid points and efficient shooting with modest rebounds and assists, especially if he maintains a consistent starting role.

Hachimura is in a critical contract-year arc with the Lakers, who won’t extend him quickly as they retool with Ayton and Smart. Rui’s 2024-25 numbers and playoff surge show his upside, particularly as a starter, but the new depth pressures him to prove he can be a primary or secondary scorer while maintaining efficiency. A strong 2025-26 could lock in a sizable next deal.

Rui’s role could pendulum between starter and secondary scorer, especially if Smart slides into the lineup. His improved shooting profile keeps him as a flexible weapon, enabling scoring bursts on the second unit while providing defensive versatility and a potential boost from increased separation on the floor with Ayton and Luca.

Rui Hachimura's ability to shoot from long range at 41.3% makes him a significant asset for the Lakers’ outside shooting needs.