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.
Lakers Notes: Hachimura, AD, LaRavia, Smart, Christie https://t.co/SIpF2IZBh5 pic.twitter.com/414wOcfEWQ
— Hoops Rumors (@HoopsRumors) November 29, 2025
