Rui Hachimura set a personal season record by sinking five three-pointers and scoring 18 points, helping the Los Angeles Lakers achieve a narrow 115-113 victory against the Golden State Warriors in a thrilling NBA Christmas Day matchup.
The game concluded dramatically with Austin Reaves making a layup just 1.7 seconds before the final buzzer, following a series of high-pressure shots from Steph Curry, who momentarily tied the score with two difficult three-pointers in the closing moments.
With star player Anthony Davis sidelined early in the game due to an ankle injury, Hachimura stepped up, not only showcasing his shooting skills but also contributing defensively. Hachimura expressed that the team’s initial shock from Davis’s exit quickly transformed into motivation: “We kind of turned around and we were like, OK, let’s make this with great, positive energy. Everybody on the court stepped in today.”
Head coach JJ Redick encouraged Hachimura and his teammates, given the limited big men available due to injuries, to take their shots without hesitation. Hachimura credited his teammates for their excellent passes and emphasized the necessity to adapt: “AD was out so we had no choice. My teammates gave me great passes and I just knocked them down.”
In a game that showcased the legendary rivalry between Curry and LeBron James, James led the Lakers with a stellar performance, scoring 31 points and providing 10 assists, while Curry topped the scoring charts with 38 points, including a staggering 17 points in the fourth quarter. Reaves also had an outstanding game, achieving a triple-double with 26 points, 10 rebounds, and 10 assists.
Hachimura reflected on the significance of playing on Christmas, noting, “It’s exciting… Everyone takes it very seriously.” The anticipation surrounding Christmas Day games adds a unique thrill, differing from regular playoff competitions as it is a one-of-a-kind annual event.
This victory not only highlights the resilience of the Lakers in the face of injury challenges but also showcases Hachimura’s evolving role in the team, positioning him as a key player for future matches.
In summary, Hachimura’s performance stood as a beacon of hope and adaptability, demonstrating that even in difficult situations, a team can rally together and shine on the biggest stages.