Photo: Los Angeles Lakers/X

As the NBA trade deadline approaches, the Los Angeles Lakers are reportedly not considering trading Rui Hachimura despite his contractual situation making him a potential trade asset. The Japanese-Benin forward is seen as a valuable part of the team’s current plans.

Dan Woike of the Los Angeles Times recently discussed Hachimura’s standing within the organization on Buha’s Block, a podcast hosted by Jovan Buha.

Woike revealed, via HoopsHype, “I spoke to a Lakers source about this where I was talking about a trade that involves Rui Hachimura going out in the trade and they’re like, ‘I don’t know, Rui’s pretty good!’” He added that Hachimura’s contributions make him a player the Lakers value highly, unlike others who may require additional assets to be moved in a deal.

Hachimura, 26, is currently in the second year of a three-year, $51 million contract. This season, he has averaged 12.2 points, 5.3 rebounds, and 1.5 assists in 32 minutes per game. His consistent scoring, rebounding ability, and size have made him an integral piece in the Lakers’ rotation.

Anthony Davis, the Lakers’ superstar forward, has publicly stated that the team needs to add another big man to allow him to return to his preferred position at power forward. While this has sparked speculation about possible trades to address the team’s needs, it appears unlikely that Hachimura will be part of such a deal.

The Lakers (24-18) sit fifth in the Western Conference standings and are expected to remain active in seeking roster improvements ahead of the February 6 deadline. However, with Hachimura providing versatility on both ends of the floor, the Lakers appear committed to keeping him in purple and gold.