The Los Angeles Lakers are facing an unexpected challenge just weeks into the new season as the pairing of Rui Hachimura and Jake LaRavia has not performed as anticipated. This situation could lead to significant decisions for the front office as they evaluate the team’s dynamics.
Rui Hachimura has had a standout season so far, averaging a career-high in points and shooting an impressive 50.0% from three-point range across 13 games. His ability to leverage his size has made him a reliable scoring option and a crucial element on the court.
In contrast, Jake LaRavia has emerged as an unexpected bright spot, displaying greater activity and versatility than many fans had initially expected when he joined the team during the offseason. Despite their individual successes, the pairing has shown troubling statistics. When Hachimura and LaRavia play together, the Lakers hold a net rating of -5.5. However, when they are separated, their contributions shine. Hachimura partners effectively with Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves, boasting a net rating of 8.8, while LaRavia’s combination with the same players achieves an impressive rating of 33.9.
Considering that the Lakers are building their strategy around Doncic, it is crucial to assess which players fit best with him. Currently, LaRavia appears to mesh better with the team dynamics. At just 24 years old, LaRavia has played only 14 games with the Lakers but has already displayed significant upside, averaging 10.2 points, 4.5 rebounds, 2.4 assists, and 1.5 steals per game. His defensive contributions have added an unexpected spark to the team’s performance.
Initially viewed merely as a depth option, LaRavia has quickly transitioned into a meaningful contributor. Hachimura, while not underperforming, presents a complex issue due to his higher salary and overlapping skill sets that complicate team rotations. While he remains a valued asset given his playoff experience and scoring abilities, he is also the player most likely to be involved in trade discussions should the Lakers seek to make a substantial in-season improvement.
The current dilemma doesn’t necessarily dictate that Hachimura should be traded, but it does raise significant questions about the roster’s overall compatibility. As the season unfolds, the Lakers will need to assess whether they can successfully incorporate both players into their future plans. Should LaRavia continue to develop positively, the organization will face pivotal choices regarding its roster composition moving forward. Only time will reveal the long-term fit of Hachimura alongside the increasingly impressive LaRavia.