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3 Lakers on the Chopping Block After LeBron James Extension

After LeBron James signed a two-year max extension on Wednesday, these three Los Angeles Lakers are likely on the chopping block.

By Devon Platana

Gabe Vincent is one of three Lakers who might be on the chopping block following LeBron James' extension.
Gabe Vincent is one of three Lakers who might be on the chopping block following LeBron James' extension. / Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports
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2. Rui Hachimura, SF/PF

Rui Hachimura is another Laker who the franchise could consider moving this offseason. Although the 26-year-old forward was one of L.A.'s better players last season, the $17 million cap hit he carries in 2024-25 could be the key to GM Pelinka landing a big fish to play alongside LeBron James and Anthony Davis.

Based on his regular-season effort, the Lakers won't struggle to find a suitor for Hachimura. The ex-Gonzaga product averaged 13.6 points, 4.3 rebounds, and 1.2 assists while playing 68 games (39 starts). He shot the ball a career-high 53.7% from the floor while also putting up 1.4 threes on 3.9 attempts (42.2%) per night.

What makes Hachimura expendable in the Lakers' eyes is that he didn't have the best postseason performance. Even though his playing time increased by nearly four minutes compared to the regular season, the Japanese slasher only put up 7.8 PTS/3.8 REB/0.8 AST with a .395/.357/.500 split against the Nuggets.

With Hachimura being young enough to, theoretically, bounce back, the Lakers should be able to find a team or two who are interested in his services. He's a solid supporting cast member, however, Los Angeles needs a bigger difference-maker and may as well capitalize on whatever value the former Bulldog currently has.

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