Andrew Wiggins has been linked to the Los Angeles Lakers throughout this summer despite their roster additions.
The Lakers acquired DeAndre Ayton, Jake LaRavia, and Marcus Smart, but their desire for upgrades appears ongoing.
Marc Stein recently revealed that the Lakers would consider parting ways with expiring contract players to trade for two-way wings like Wiggins.
Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty ImagesJohn Ireland argues Rui Hachimura’s defensive versatility outweighs Andrew Wiggins’ reputation
Rui Hachimura, who becomes an unrestricted free agent after the 2025-26 season, has emerged in trade rumors as a potential piece.
Lakers expert John Ireland believes the franchise shouldn’t consider trading Hachimura for Wiggins.
His reasoning centers on Hachimura’s superior defensive options due to his size and versatility.
“I’m not 100 percent positive that Andrew Wiggins is a better fit than Rui Hachimura,” Ireland said on the Mason and Ireland show.
“I think Rui, because of his size, can give you more options defensively. I’ll say it, I just really like Rui. I’m a big fan of his on and off the court. I would hate to see him go.”
Ireland acknowledged the realities of NBA trades while expressing personal preference for retaining Hachimura.
“I understand that you got to trade something to get something, but I’m not sure I do that deal. That’s nothing against Andrew Wiggins, who I think is a great player, but I just like Rui,” he added.
Statistical comparison reveals mixed defensive advantages between Andrew Wiggins and Rui Hachimura
Defensive statistics show Wiggins leads Hachimura in steals and defensive rating, suggesting better overall defensive impact.
However, Hachimura excels in contesting shots, though context matters since Wiggins typically guards primary scorers.
PlayersStealsDef. RatingsDef. FG%Def. ReboundsAndrew Wiggins1.0113.555.8%3.0Rui Hachimura0.8116.345.6%3.7
The statistical comparison doesn’t provide clear-cut superiority for either player, supporting Ireland’s argument that the trade wouldn’t represent a significant upgrade.
Ireland expressed more interest in pursuing Haywood Highsmith, Wiggins’ former Miami Heat teammate, as an alternative target.
“He was good in Miami. I’m more interested in that deal,” Ireland stated.
Highsmith offers wing defense with valuable offensive production, shooting 38.2% from three-point range last season.
His $5.6 million expiring contract provides financial flexibility while addressing the Lakers’ two-way wing needs without sacrificing Hachimura’s established chemistry and potential.