The Los Angeles Lakers face the daunting task of bolstering the roster into a championship contender this summer, as they’re clearly in a lower tier than the top teams in the Western Conference. And most importantly, they’re still no match for the Denver Nuggets.
Rob Pelinka will face tough questions regarding who to get rid of this summer, as the Lakers don’t have much depth as currently constructed. With that being said, let’s take a look at four players who could find themselves on the move this offseason.
4. Rui Hachimura
After proving himself as a high-level role player last season, Rui Hachimura has found it difficult to identify his niche on this Lakers team. Part of the challenge has been Lakers coach Darvin Ham’s constant tinkering with the starting lineup, as Hachimura has been both a starter and a reserve.
This can make it difficult to establish a rhythm.
Hachimura is a limited player, as he struggles to contribute outside of scoring. He’s not a lockdown defender and he doesn’t provide any playmaking.
And he’s inconsistent on the glass, despite being 6-foot-8. He plays his role well, however, his limitations should compel the Lakers’ front office to ship him off this offseason.
