Rui Hachimura satisfied with the role he has with Lakers

Before the Los Angeles Lakers faced the Dallas Mavericks on Friday, Rui Hachimura discussed his mindset this season and his perspective on his role within the organization.

In a video shared by Dave McMenamin of ESPN, Hachimura made it clear that he’s fully comfortable with the responsibilities the team has given him.

“I’m not trying to be a superstar. … I’m just trying to help the team win – whatever they ask,” Hachimura said. “I like my role here … I’m really trying to win the championship with this team. I like how they’ve been treating me. … So, I’m happy.”

A former No. 9 overall pick in the 2019 draft, Hachimura has rewarded the Lakers’ confidence in him with one of the most efficient offensive stretches of his career to open the 2025/26 season.

Through 16 games, he is averaging 14.9 points per contest while shooting an impressive .568 from the field and .483 from deep, along with .735 at the free-throw line. He has also contributed 3.9 rebounds per game in 33.5 minutes.

Now 27 years old, Hachimura is earning about $18.3MM this season and is on track to become an unrestricted free agent in 2026 unless he and the Lakers agree to an extension beforehand.