The Los Angeles Lakers have built a roster to maximize the championship window of LeBron James, while also keeping Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves as cornerstones of their future. Rui Hachimura is a valued starter in that mix, but is he truly untouchable, or could he be upgraded if the right opportunity presents itself?
- Scoring – Andrew Wiggins
- Shooting – Rui Hachimura
- Athleticism – Even
- Defense – Andrew Wiggins
- Handles – Andrew Wiggins
- Clutch – Andrew Wiggins
- Leadership – Andrew Wiggins
- Basketball IQ – Even
- Impact With Lakers – Even
- Efficiency – Rui Hachimura
- 1-On-1 Game – Rui Hachimura
- Final Result
- Andrew Wiggins vs. Rui Hachimura 5-3
One name that has surfaced in trade discussions is Andrew Wiggins, the former All-Star and NBA champion with Golden State. Known for his two-way ability as a defender and capable scorer, Wiggins fits the mold of the modern wing every contender needs. That is why the Lakers have targeted Wiggins as their primary target, and we have three packages the franchise could put together to acquire the former All-Star swingman.
Still, Lakers’ front office must weigh whether Andrew Wiggins’ skill set provides a better complement alongside LeBron, Luka, and Reaves than what Hachimura currently brings. To answer that, we’ll break down each player’s strengths and weaknesses in terms of pure skills.
Scoring – Andrew Wiggins
Wiggins takes the edge as the more dynamic scorer. He’s capable of creating his own shot off the dribble, getting downhill in transition, and heating up for stretches that can completely shift a game’s momentum. Last season, in what was considered a down year, he averaged 18.0 PPG and has eight seasons of posting at least 17.0 PPG over his career so far.
Hachimura, by contrast, thrives more as a complementary scorer after posting 13.1 PPG last season with a career average of 12.8 PPG. He’s efficient and steady, but his offense is usually generated within the flow of the team rather than by sheer creation. That reliability is valuable, yet it doesn’t carry the same burst potential that Wiggins can bring when the Lakers need an extra punch.
Shooting – Rui Hachimura
Hachimura shines with his shooting. Nailing 41.3% from deep last season, he has developed into a reliable perimeter threat who can knock down shots off the catch, space the floor (career 38.1% 3-PT FG), and keep defenses honest. His mechanics are smooth, and he rarely forces attempts, which makes him a trusted option around LeBron and Luka.
Wiggins, while capable from the outside (37.4% last season with 35.6% career clip), is more streaky. His shot selection is often tougher because he creates more of his own looks, which can lead to inconsistency. Hachimura’s ability to stretch defenses without overextending himself gives him the edge in this category.
Athleticism – Even
Both players bring plenty of athletic tools to the table. Wiggins’ explosiveness and leaping ability are well-documented, allowing him to defend wings, finish above the rim, and move laterally at a high level. At 6’7″ and 197 lbs, Wiggins has a perfect NBA build.
Hachimura counters with the strength and mobility of his own at 6’8″ and 230 lbs. He runs the floor well, plays with physicality, and has enough quickness to stay with versatile forwards. While their athleticism shows up in different ways, the overall impact is close to even.
Defense – Andrew Wiggins
Defense is where Wiggins separates himself most clearly. He can take on the toughest perimeter assignments, switch onto guards, and still hold his ground against bigger wings. His versatility and energy on this end make him a valuable asset for any contender, averaging 1.0 SPG and 0.7 BPG over his career.
Hachimura is competent defensively (career 0.6 SPG, 0.3 BPG), especially in team concepts, but he isn’t typically tasked with locking down an opponent’s star scorer. He contributes, but Wiggins’ defensive skills, honed in deep playoff runs, give him the clear advantage.
Handles – Andrew Wiggins
Wiggins is far more comfortable with the ball in his hands. He can create off the dribble, attack closeouts, and get to spots where he feels comfortable scoring. That ability adds an extra layer of offensive flexibility, even if Wiggins only averages 2.3 APG for his career.
Hachimura’s handle is more limited. He can put the ball on the floor in short bursts (only 1.3 APG over his career), but he’s not someone the Lakers would rely on to consistently generate looks. In a head-to-head comparison, Wiggins’ skill with the ball stands out.
Clutch – Andrew Wiggins
Wiggins has shown that he can step up in big moments, whether it’s hitting timely shots or delivering key defensive stops. His experience in the 2022 NBA Finals proved that Wiggins has an innate ability to step up, finishing runner-up for Finals MVP that season.
Hachimura has also had strong moments, but his role is usually more complementary. He thrives as a steady contributor, yet he hasn’t carried the same late-game responsibilities as Wiggins. For pure clutch value and experience in the biggest moments, Wiggins gets the nod.
Leadership – Andrew Wiggins
Wiggins brings veteran leadership shaped by championship experience. He knows what it takes to contribute on both ends in the highest-pressure environments, and his example on the court sets a tone for teammates. Any player who comes close to a Finals MVP trophy has enough leadership proven.
Hachimura leads more quietly, through work ethic and adaptability, but he hasn’t yet been leaned on as a guiding presence. Wiggins’ background and ability to mentor younger players push him ahead here.
Basketball IQ – Even
Both players display strong basketball instincts. Wiggins understands rotations, defensive schemes, and when to pick his spots offensively. His years in Golden State and other systems sharpened his decision-making.
Hachimura shows equal awareness, particularly in spacing the floor, cutting at the right time, and fitting within team concepts. Neither makes glaring mental mistakes, so this category comes out even.
Impact With Lakers – Even
The impact question depends on what the Lakers decide to go for. Wiggins’ two-way game offers defensive toughness and scoring versatility, while Hachimura provides efficient shooting and low-mistake basketball. Each influences winning in different but valuable ways.
For the Lakers, both have clear benefits: Wiggins can help match up against elite wings even as he approaches 31 years old, while Hachimura strengthens spacing around stars. The balance makes this too close to call, and it will be based on the other factors we will continue to mention.
Efficiency – Rui Hachimura
Hachimura’s biggest edge is his efficiency. He rarely forces plays, takes shots he can make, and makes the most of the opportunities created by his teammates. That steadiness is perfect for a team with multiple high-usage stars, especially since the forward averaged 50.9% from the field and 41.3% from three (49.6% from the field and 38.1% from deep).
Wiggins, while effective, can be less efficient (44.9% FG, 35.6% 3-PT FG) due to tougher shot selection and a higher degree of difficulty. Hachimura’s consistency and shot discipline give him the upper hand here.
1-On-1 Game – Rui Hachimura
At only 27 years old, Hachimura’s one-on-one game is underrated. He can face up, hit jumpers over defenders, or use his strength to back down smaller wings. His polished mid-range game makes him difficult to guard when he has space.
Wiggins is dangerous off the dribble, but Hachimura’s blend of power and finesse makes him a more efficient isolation scorer. For straight-up one-on-one situations, Rui deserves the edge because he is more effective on the block.
Final Result
Andrew Wiggins vs. Rui Hachimura 5-3
Overall, Wiggins edges out Hachimura in more categories. His scoring versatility, defense, ball-handling, clutch presence, and leadership make him a more complete two-way option. Those attributes would fit perfectly in the Lakers’ push for another championship because we trust Wiggins to raise his game when it matters most.
Hachimura, however, isn’t far behind. His shooting, efficiency, and one-on-one scoring are real strengths, and his ability to blend into lineups without disrupting star play is extremely valuable.
The choice ultimately depends on what the Lakers value more: Wiggins’ proven two-way pedigree or Hachimura’s efficient, low-maintenance fit. Even if the Lakers can’t land Wiggins in a trade, keeping Rui isn’t the worst backup position to be in.
