The Los Angeles Lakers continue to be mentioned in trade rumors ahead of next week's deadline, and one veteran player may be on the way out.
The Stein Line's Jake Fischer reports that Lakers forward Rui Hachimura is on the trade block.
"The Lakers have shown a willingness to include Rui Hachimura in (a) trade, sources say, but that's been a catalyst in their efforts to buy to fortify their current roster — not sell," Fischer said.
Hachimura is averaging 12.5 points, 3.6 rebounds and shooting 43.9% from three this season. He was recently sidelined with a calf strain for around two weeks, forcing head coach JJ Redick to bring him off the bench.
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Hachimura recently expressed a desire to stay in LA, stating he's willing to come off the bench if the team keeps winning.
His expiring $18.2 million contract may be an enticing trade chip for contending teams. Hachimura is a 38.9% career 3-pointer shooter and has been a consistent scorer throughout his career.
He's in his fourth season with the Lakers after being acquired from the Washington Wizards. Hachimura was drafted No. 9 overall by Washington in the 2019 NBA Draft and spent four seasons with the club.
Other Lakers reportedly on the trade block include Dalton Knecht, Maxi Kleber and Gabe Vincent. General Manager Rob Pelinka has two first-round picks available to trade.
The Lakers (28-17) are fifth in the Western Conference, one game ahead of the Phoenix Suns. LA has won four of its past five games, including a 129-118 victory against the Chicago Bulls on Monday.
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