Lakers star Luka Doncic and Coach JJ Redick have possibly put an end to the trade rumors circling Rui Hachimura. The experienced forward, who is in the final year of his $51.0 million contract, was one of the biggest names circulating in the trade machines throughout the offseason.
Putting an end to trade rumors
An underwhelming preseason only sparked the Lakers' fan base's wish to move him, mainly because of his one-dimensional play. Hachimura has been a top-notch shooter when in touch, but his defense and rebounding are questionable on most games, which has led to the trade rumors.
Reportedly, he was involved in the framework negotiated for Andrew Wiggins, but a deal did not materialize because of the Heat's demand for draft capital. In Monday's 121-111 victory against Charlotte, Hachimura amassed 21 points on 9 of 12 shots, including 3 of 3 from deep. However he was also huge on defense.
Lakers coach JJ Redick and star Luka Doncic gave Rui Hachimura his flowers for putting in the work on both dimensions.
Here is what Redick informed reporters:
"Rui had a stretch there in the third (quarter), it was as good as we have seen him on that end of the floor. On top of that, he was making shots on the other end to give us that cushion."
Here is what Luka Doncic told:
"It helps us win games a lot. But like I said ... maybe the Atlanta game, he was very underrated. Nobody talks about him, but he deserves a lot of credit in our wins. He's been amazing for us, and the way he plays like every game, it just helps us a lot, especially to win games."
Clinical performances by Rui Hachimura
Rui Hachimura has been effective through the first 11 games, averaging career high across the board. He is scoring 16.3 points on 58.6% shooting, consisting of 52.4% from 3-point range.