Lakers News: Rui Hachimura Ambiguous About Free Agent Future With LA

Will the team resign Rui?

Like any other person, Lakers restricted free agent Rui Hachimura just wants to be happy. Before game four of the NBA Finals, Hacimura talked about his upcoming free agency on ESPN's "Hoop Streams" and said he enjoyed his time in Los Angeles but didn't commit to returning to the Lakers.

I don’t know my future but I just want to be somewhere I can be happy. The Lakers have been good and we’re going to see.”

Hachimura became a fan favorite during his limited time with the Lakers this past season and was a major reason as to why the team made it to the Western Conference Finals. It has been reported previously that the team intends to bring back Hachimura if at all possible and they will have the chance to match any offer made to him due to his restricted free agency.

Rui’s mid-range mastery: Playoff edition pic.twitter.com/BFxUH3ixW0

— Los Angeles Lakers (@Lakers) June 2, 2023

It seemed that Hachimura really took a step forward in his growth with Los Angeles, especially come playoff time. He took on the challenge of guarding some of the bigger players on the opposing sides and his three-point shot became more deadly.

When he was drafted out of the University of Gonzaga by the Washington Wizards, many believed that his upside was sky high. However, he never fully put it all together during his time in Washington but we saw flashes. It was the flashes that interested the Lakers in the first place and saw them give up three second-round picks for him at the trade deadline.

In his first playoff game with the Lakers, Hachimura scored 29 points and hit five threes to help the team take down the Memphis Grizzlies. It was almost like a coming out party for the young forward and it gave him confidence for the rest of the postseason.

Hachimura is estimated to receive a multi-year deal at or around $15-$20 million on the open market and the Lakers should do what it takes to retain him. He enjoyed his time in Los Angeles and the Lakers believe he can grow even more. After all, he is only 25-years-old and gives the team more wing depth. 

If the team has it their way, Hachimura will be on the roster next season. But if the bidding for his services gets out of control, the Lakers may let him walk. Whatever happens, the most important part of this is that Hachimura is happy. He made that clear and for all Lakers fans sake, let's hope he ends up happy to be back with the Lakers.

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