Lakers Rumors: Rui Hachimura Faces Uncertain Future in Los Angeles with $18 Million Contract Update

Rui Hachimura enters the 2025-26 season with the Los Angeles Lakers on the final year of his current contract, set to earn $18,259,259. While the financial figure is locked in, his long-term future with the franchise remains up in the air.

Contract Extension Unlikely Before Season

According to Lakers beat reporter Jovan Buha, the team is not expected to offer Rui Hachimura an extension before the season tips off. On his podcast, Buha explained, “With the current intel I have, I do not expect Rui to be extended by the Los Angeles Lakers in the next six weeks. It’s certainly possible that something happens, but I would say most of what’s been out there is them wanting to keep the books clean and wanting to see whether he starts or whether he’s their sixth man and how the pieces fit this year.”This decision leaves Hachimura in a pivotal position: he must prove his value in a contract year, knowing he could be a highly sought-after free agent next summer.

Rui Hachimura’s Current Role and Production

The Japanese forward, now 27, first joined the Lakers in January 2023 through a trade with the Washington Wizards. He earned his first full-time starting role in the 2024-25 season and put up solid numbers:

His efficiency as a scorer and ability to stretch the floor made him a valuable asset in the Lakers’ rotation, whether starting or coming off the bench.

Los Angeles Lakers’ Long-Term Cap Space Strategy

The Los Angeles Lakers’ approach to Hachimura’s contract situation ties directly into their broader financial planning. With LeBron James expected to come off the books after this season, Los Angeles will have more flexibility heading into 2026 and beyond.If Hachimura walks in free agency, the Lakers could free up even more room to make a major signing. The front office is already positioning itself to build around Luka Doncic, who recently signed a long-term extension and is viewed as the centerpiece of the franchise’s future.

What’s Next for Rui Hachimura

For now, Rui Hachimura’s focus will be on contributing to the Lakers’ success while strengthening his case for a lucrative deal in the summer of 2026. Given his age and production, he is expected to draw interest from multiple teams if he hits the open market.Also read: Lakers Rumors: Can Los Angeles Re-Sign $54 Million Star Without Defensive Growth?The Los Angeles Lakers, meanwhile, will use the season to evaluate whether Hachimura is a long-term fit alongside Doncic or whether his salary slot would be better allocated toward other roster pieces.