Rui Hachimura’s potential extension with the Lakers hinges on keeping long-term cap flexibility while weighing a possible 2026-27 max free-agent landscape. An extension could start near $27.6M with ~8% annual raises, totaling about $114.5M over four years. L.A. isn’t rushing, preferring to evaluate this season’s performance before locking in a long-term commitment that could affect future star pursuits.