NBA Trade Rumors: Los Angeles Lakers could acquire $60 million Boston Celtics star in a blockbuster deal to improve championship odds; Rui Hachimura key trade asset?

The Los Angeles Lakers’ early playoff exit has sparked speculation about major roster changes. One surprising possibility involves forward Rui Hachimura and Kristaps Porzingis of the Boston Celtics.

Why the Boston Celtics Might Target Rui Hachimura

The Boston Celtics could see Hachimura as a cost-effective solution. His expiring contract offers flexibility, making him an appealing trade target. Lake Show Life’s Svyatoslav Rovenchuk broke down the potential move: "This is a tricky one. The Boston Celtics are known to desire shedding salary, projecting them as sellers for this offseason. Perhaps with Jayson Tatum missing due to injury, and a vacant forward spot in the starting lineup, the Celtics would view Hachimura's expiring deal as the right fit." (H/t: Sporting News)

Key reasons Boston may pursue Hachimura:

- Reliable scoring (13.1 PPG, 50.9% FG this season) - Floor-spacing ability (41.3% from three) - Financial flexibility with his expiring contract

What the Los Angeles Lakers Gain in a Potential Trade

A deal centered around Hachimura and Kristaps Porzingis could benefit both teams. Kristaps Porzingis’ upside for LA: - Three-level scoring threat - Rim protection (career 1.8 blocks per game) - Better fit alongside Anthony Davis Despite Porzingis’ injury history and poor 2025 playoffs (7.7 PPG, 31.6% FG), his skill set addresses Los Angeles Lakers’ needs.

How a Trade Could Work

A third team might be necessary to facilitate the move. Potential trade framework:

Derrick White could also be a target for the Lakers if talks expand.

Hachimura’s Value to Both Teams

For the Lakers:

- Efficient role player (4th-leading scorer in 2024-25) - Strong off-ball movement and mid-range game - Playoff-tested contributor

For the Celtics:

- Immediate help during Tatum’s absence - Financial flexibility after 2025-26 - Better balance between offense and defense While Hachimura isn’t a star, his consistency and contract make him a logical trade piece. As Rovenchuk noted, "They get at least one guaranteed season of dependable production from the Los Angeles Lakers forward... They also get to drop his salary altogether next offseason."Also read: NBA Trade Rumors: Los Angeles Lakers predicted to acquire $76,487,996 Boston Celtics star to bolster team around LeBron, Luka, and Austin an improve title oddsWith both teams needing adjustments, this could be the offseason’s most unexpected blockbuster.