The Los Angeles Lakers are at a crossroads, and it’s not just about who they add next; it’s about who they might lose.
According to Insider Anthony Erwin, the Lakers’ front office is deeply divided over the futures of Austin Reaves and Rui Hachimura, two players who have become mainstays in their rotation over the past two and a half seasons. As the franchise prepares for the first full year of the Luka Doncic era, tough decisions loom large.
The tension stems from the Lakers’ disappointing 2-12 record in their last 14 playoff games, including a first-round exit at the hands of the Minnesota Timberwolves.
With limited trade assets and only one first-round pick to leverage, the Lakers’ ability to upgrade the roster hinges on moving actual contributors, and that’s where Reaves and Hachimura come into focus.
Austin Reaves is coming off the best season of his career, averaging 20.2 points, 4.5 rebounds, and 5.8 assists per game on 46.0% shooting from the field and 37.7% from three-point range.
His affordable contract makes him one of the best value assets in the league, but that won’t last. Reaves is expected to demand upwards of $30 million annually when he hits free agency in 2026, and his agent recently issued a sharp response to trade speculation, stating, “You have no idea what’s coming.”
Despite his popularity and production, the Lakers aren't actively shopping Reaves unless the return is an All-Star caliber player who complements Doncic long-term.
So far, no such deal exists. However, the cap situation and fit alongside Doncic raise internal concerns. Reaves struggles defensively against elite wings, and with Doncic and LeBron James both operating with high usage, there’s an argument that the Lakers may need a more athletic, defensive-minded backcourt partner.
Hachimura, meanwhile, may be the more likely trade candidate. Set to earn $18.2 million next season on an expiring deal, he’s one of the few players whose salary and performance could fetch a rotation-level upgrade in return.
Despite dealing with a lingering knee issue, he was one of the few Lakers who showed up consistently in the postseason. His 41% three-point shooting and physicality on the wing give him value, but with James, Doncic, and Dorian Finney-Smith all defending similar positions, the fit becomes redundant.
Some within the Lakers’ front office want to make bold moves now, even if it costs popular players, believing that wasting another year of LeBron James and Doncic together would be organizational malpractice.
Others prefer to wait for a full training camp to evaluate the fit before blowing things up. There’s also speculation that the team may be saving its best assets for a future star partner for Doncic once LeBron’s contract expires.
Whatever direction the Lakers take, one thing is clear: this offseason will define their future. The debate around Reaves and Hachimura isn’t just about two players; it’s about whether LA is ready to act boldly or continue to play it safe with a roster that hasn’t delivered when it matters most.
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