Jaden Hardy has a familiar connection with Luka Dončić, but earning a place in the Lakers’ crowded guard rotation is his first challenge.
Jaden Hardy’s first challenge with the Los Angeles Lakers is clear: earn a place in the rotation. His numbers from last season suggest he could make good use of one.
Hardy averaged 9.2 points, 1.5 rebounds and 1.0 assists in 57 games split between Dallas and Washington, according to the Lakers.
The season looked different after he moved to the Wizards. With more playing time, his scoring average rose from 6.9 points in Dallas to 12.6 points in Washington, where he shot 42% from 3-point range.
That stretch showed the Lakers why Hardy is worth a look. He can score quickly, whether he catches a pass for an open shot or creates space for himself. Los Angeles acquired him in the offseason deal that sent Deandre Ayton to Washington, bringing him back together with former Mavericks teammate Luka Dončić.
A useful connection with Dončić
Hardy already understands the demands of playing beside Dončić. Defenders often focus on keeping the ball out of Dončić’s hands or sending help when he drives. A guard alongside him must be ready to shoot when the pass arrives and make the next decision without hesitation.
Hardy’s improved shooting in Washington is encouraging in that context. He would not need to create every opportunity himself with the Lakers. Dončić and Austin Reaves can draw attention and give him chances to attack a defense that is already moving.
The challenge is that L.A. has several guards who can claim those opportunities. Reaves will have a major role, while newcomers Collin Sexton and Quentin Grimes will also compete for minutes. Hardy’s 12.6-point average with Washington came with more playing time than he is assured of receiving under JJ Redick.
That makes his work without the ball especially important. Hardy has to defend, keep possessions moving and remain ready even if he spends much of a game on the bench. A productive scoring night can catch Redick’s attention. Reliable decisions from game to game can help Hardy keep his place.
The opening is there
Hardy’s 2025-26 averages across both teams do not tell the whole story. His stint in Washington provided a glimpse of how his scoring could rise when given a larger role. It also gives him a standard to carry into Lakers training camp.
A breakout in L.A. may look different from his Wizards stretch. Hardy might get fewer shots, but he could make a greater impact by becoming a dependable bench scorer on a team with bigger ambitions.
Dončić knows the player Hardy was in Dallas. The Lakers will be looking for the player who took advantage of his opportunity in Washington. If Hardy brings that shooting and scoring confidence into a role he earns with L.A., he could become more than an offseason addition.
