Rob Pelinka expressed optimism after trading Kendrick Nunn and three second-round picks to Washington for Rui Hachimura, noting it was a move to upgrade the Lakers’ wing and shooting needs. He emphasized, however, that “the work is not finished” before the February deadline and the Lakers will continue to monitor options with the other 29 teams.
As front office personnel, we always look for ways to enhance our team now and in the future. The Lakers acted quickly because of the potential for Rui Hachimura to improve their shooting and perimeter defense, having averaged 13 points at a 47.9% rate over the last three seasons in Washington.
The Lakers managed to make the transaction without giving up their two first-round picks. Rob Pelinka stated that the Lakers have “tremendous flexibility to shift in multiple directions,” including potentially re-signing Hachimura as a restricted free agent this summer.
LeBron James has deferred questions regarding the roster to the front office, but he expects the Lakers to upgrade their roster in press conferences and social media posts. Rob Pelinka commented that James and Anthony Davis are involved in the front office and head coaching decisions. The team’s performance will influence the front office’s perspective on whether the Lakers need just one or two trades to compete for an NBA title.
After a slow start to the season with a 2-10 record, the Lakers have since gone 20-15, bringing them to 12th in the Western Conference. Despite their current standing, coach Darvin Ham believes the team is “trending in a great direction” due to their recent efforts. Lakers GM Rob Pelinka also praised LeBron James for being named the Western Conference Player of the Week, after averaging 35 points on 51% shooting in four games last week.
After having “another good day” in Tuesday’s morning shootaround, Dravin Ham said the Lakers will assess Anthony Davis’ ability to compete in Wednesday’s matchup against San Antonio.