The Los Angeles Lakers made a blockbuster deal for Russell Westbrook just a few years ago, cutting ties with nearly all of their depth. For the Lakers and General Manager Rob Pelinka, hopefully, that transaction served as a blueprint of what not to do moving forward.

That doesn’t mean if a star becomes available, the Lakers shouldn’t pursue that player. However, they also have to ensure there is a solid supporting cast around Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves—especially as LeBron James edges closer to the end of his illustrious career.

One player who needs to remain a part of the Lakers’ core is Rui Hachimura. He has been a bright spot for Los Angeles, particularly with James and Doncic missing portions of the season. LeBron has yet to appear in a game this year, and Doncic has missed multiple contests early in the season.

This year, Hachimura has emerged as one of the best role players in the NBA, averaging 16.0 points per game while shooting an impressive 51.1% from three-point range. He has set himself up for a significant payday, and according to ESPN’s Bobby Marks, Hachimura could be in line for a massive extension worth $114.5 million over four seasons.

“For a Lakers roster featuring Reaves, Doncic, and James, Hachimura has been a constant this season,” Marks wrote. “And thanks in part to Hachimura’s defense—most notably his knack for defending 3-point shooters—the Lakers are allowing the second-lowest field goal percentage on shots beyond 25 feet.”

Hachimura is eligible to sign a four-year, $114.5 million extension up until June 30. While $115 million is a considerable commitment for a player of his caliber, that figure aligns with the going rate for above-average role players in today’s NBA.

The Lakers will obviously have to consider the complexities of the second-apron salary situation and all the challenges it brings. Still, they want to ensure they are well-positioned to contend for a title with Doncic on the roster.

As the season progresses, keeping players like Rui Hachimura could be pivotal for the Lakers’ championship aspirations.

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https://www.newsweek.com/sports/nba/lakers-fan-favorite-linked-to-115-million-extension-in-los-angeles-11045696