Report: Rui Hachimura Most Likely to Leave Lakers; Spurs and Nets Interested in Signing Him — Could Pair with Wembanyama for Championship Run

On June 28, Beijing time, among the Lakers' multiple expiring free agents, Rui Hachimura might be the most likely to change teams next season. According to a report from renowned insider Fisher today, the Nets and Spurs are teams interested in signing Hachimura. Sources told league insiders that Brooklyn has long been seen as a strong suitor for him. Multiple sources indicate that both the Nets and Spurs are looking to bring in Hachimura. Meanwhile, San Antonio still needs to finalize the future of Harrison Barnes, as the veteran forward is about to become an unrestricted free agent.

Hachimura has had several bright seasons with the Lakers, but given the current roster composition, his fit with the team is far from ideal. Once free agency opens, Los Angeles is likely to view him as expendable. If he hits the open market, multiple teams will compete for this elite floor-spacing shooter.

For Hachimura, San Antonio is actually an excellent landing spot. The Spurs have plenty of backcourt talent but are severely lacking in forward depth. Hachimura could even step directly into a starting role, and with Victor Wembanyama as an interior anchor, many of his offensive and defensive weaknesses could be covered.

Even if Lakers fans can accept letting Hachimura go, seeing him join the Spurs — or the Nets — would still leave a bitter taste.

The Nets' offseason strategy is completely baffling. It's hard to imagine any star player wanting to go to Brooklyn unless they are drawn by New York's market resources or can secure a max contract.

However, the Nets do have plenty of cap space to offer big salaries. Throughout the offseason, Brooklyn will likely use its cap room to drive up prices and act as a bargaining chip — something Lakers fans are already used to, as the Nets often don't actually follow through with signings.

Still, this confirms one thing: barring any surprises, Rui Hachimura will receive multiple offers this summer. He has previously expressed that he enjoys his time with the Lakers, and many reports suggest he is widely expected to stay. But even if the Lakers' front office wants to re-sign him, they will inevitably face competition from other teams.

In the 2025-26 season, Hachimura played 68 regular-season games, averaging 11.5 points and 3.3 rebounds with a 44.3% three-point percentage. He appeared in 10 playoff games, averaging 17.5 points and 4 rebounds while shooting 56.9% from beyond the arc.