This offseason, the Lakers have got their name linked to prominent trade candidates despite their failure to land any of them. However, amid all the tussle, their most tradeable star, Rui Hachimura, might’ve found a suitor for himself, at least an upcoming proposal. The 26-year-old can get off the Lakers train as a potential replacement for two role players from the East Conference. If that happens, the Lakers will land assets contractually worth $54 million.

With the plan of making a young core and having viable first-round picks, the Hornets are shaping up for the future. As part of their goal, they moved on Terry Rozier, Gordon Hayward, and PJ Washington for future draft picks. Following the chain, the next ones in line are Vasilije Micic and Cody Martin. The 30-year-old guard inked a three-year $23.5 million contract with the OKC. So, the contract continued when he moved to the Hornets last season.

Similarly, Cody Martin is on a 4 million $31 million contract. Altogether, both of them are not in sync with the Hornets’ ambitions but might be an asset to the Lakers. Also, Cody Martin is eligible to sign an extension, as he is in the third year of his contract. With a 140% hike in his last year’s $8.6 million salary, he can get as much as $12.1 million/year. Such staggering numbers, in addition to the 8% per year surge, will amount to about a $54 million contract for Martin.

However, the veteran, who will turn 31 soon, might be more of a liability than an asset. That’s why the Hornets might be yearning for the younger Rui Hachimura. The Lakers could trade Rui Hachimura for Martin and Micic. Wondering why? Both of them come at low cost, and the Lakers have two role players for the trade of one.

Micic can be a competitive point in the center, and Martin can be a great player on both ends. Hachimura did show a promising performance with an average of 13.6 points and 4.3 rebounds last season, but the Lakers need variety in their roster.

Why is Rui Hachimura a trade choice for the Lakers despite decent numbers last season?

When we look at the stat line of the Lakers’ star, it displays his ability to do everything as a forward. However, the Lakers need cheaper players who can excel in their role and at least provide at-par results like Hachimura because of their second apron situation. The 26-year-old still has $35.2 million left on his contract with the Lakers. So it will be convenient if the Purple and Gold can get rid of the numbers he is owed.

On the other end, though, Micic and Martin are excelling, they are good role players. As a point guard, Micic racked up 7 points and 4.4 assists last season. Much better playmaking than that of Hachimura’s and at a lower expense. Even if the Lakers want to experiment, Micic is someone they can bet on. Similarly, Cody Martin’s 7.5 points, 3.7 assists, alongside 3.9 rebounds stat line, showcase his ability to deliver on both ends.

That’s why the Rui Hachimura trade is a feasible choice that the Lakers can opt in for. However, will their new mastermind, JJ Redick approve? What do you all think of this trade? Let us know in the comments.

Before you go, do not forget to check out this crossover between BG12 and Georgia Bulldogs star Asia Avinger