Rui Hachimura is the most likely candidate to start alongside LeBron James, Luka Doncic, Austin Reaves, and DeAndre Ayton as the Lakers’ fifth starter heading into the 2025-26 season, according to ClutchPoints.
JJ Redick and his staff are leaning toward Rui because of his familiarity with the core group. His size at forward and his clean bill of health also give him an edge over his likely competitor, Marcus Smart, who is managing Achilles tendinopathy.
The decision isn’t final, but the report indicates Hachimura currently has the inside track as Los Angeles looks to open the season with stability, early wins, and a defined rotation.
Why Hachimura Fits the Starting Five
- Continuity & Chemistry: Hachimura logged key playoff minutes next to LeBron and Reaves over the past two seasons, giving him a head start on Redick’s new system and spacing requirements.
- Size & Shooting: At 6-foot-8, he adds length and rebounding up front, along with a reliable mid-range game and a solid three-point shot that keeps the floor open for Luka-LeBron drives.
- Healthy & Motivated: Entering a contract year, Hachimura is fully healthy and motivated to prove he deserves a long-term role, something the coaching staff values as it eyes a strong start in a stacked Western Conference.
The Marcus Smart Factor
- Defensive Grit: A former Defensive Player of the Year, Smart brings vocal leadership and elite point-of-attack defense that could relieve pressure on Dončić and Reaves, especially against guard-heavy matchups.
- Health Question Mark: Achilles tendinopathy has limited his participation in live drills, raising concerns about his ability to sustain heavy minutes early in the season.
- Size & Shooting Trade-off: At 6-4, Smart gives up size against bigger wings and is a less consistent floor-spacer than Hachimura, which could impact lineup balance.
What’s At Stake
The choice reflects Redick’s larger challenge: balancing size, shooting, and defense while integrating Luka and building chemistry with a revamped roster that also includes DeAndre Ayton.
Starting Hachimura could prioritize continuity and spacing, both of which are crucial for establishing an effective offensive rhythm.
Starting Smart would emphasize defense and grit, potentially at the cost of floor spacing and size. There is also the added health risk.
Outlook
If the Lakers want to hit the ground running, the safer early-season move appears to be Hachimura in the opening lineup.
But with Redick seeking the right mix to chase banner number 18, the fifth-starter slot could remain fluid as the season unfolds, especially if Smart’s health improves or defensive needs increase.
