It looks like NBA trade season is starting in earnest. According to ESPN’s Adrian Wojanrowski, the Los Angeles Lakers have traded for Washington Wizards forward Rui Hachimura. In return, the Lakers are reportedly sending back Kendrick Nunn and three second-round draft picks.
Hachimura was the ninth-overall pick out of Gonzaga in the 2019 NBA draft. He played a ton in his first two seasons, starting 105 total games, but in that number fell down a cliff during the 2021-2022 season. He started just 13 games that season, appearing in 42 total. In the current season, he’s appeared in 30 and started zero games.
The Wizards reportedly began exploring trade options for Hachimura a little over a week ago, but the writing have been on the wall from the start of the season. Back in October, the Wizards didn’t offer Hachimura a rookie extension, and since they have enough forwards (Kyle Kuzma being one), he became a little less necessary to the team.
In what was his final game for the Wizards, Hachimura put up 30 points in a win over the Orlando Magic.
This story will be updated.
Washington Wizards forward Rui Hachimura (8) smiles after scoring against the Orlando Magic during the second half of an NBA basketball game, Saturday, Jan. 21, 2023, in Washington. (AP Photo/Jess Rapfogel)
