The Los Angeles Lakers are gearing up for a busy January schedule, prompting the team to cancel game-day shootarounds. However, they are set to receive a significant boost with the anticipated return of Rui Hachimura, who has been recovering from a calf injury. Lakers head coach JJ Redick emphasized the importance of Hachimura’s presence, labeling him as the team’s best catch-and-shoot player and highlighting his status as one of the elite shooters in the NBA.
Hachimura’s journey with the Lakers has required him to adapt to a new role, transitioning from a more ball-dominant position during his time with the Washington Wizards to a supportive off-ball role. This change has come as he plays alongside superstars LeBron James and Anthony Davis, and now Luka Doncic. Despite fewer shot attempts compared to his days with the Wizards, Hachimura has seen a remarkable improvement in his shooting efficiency over the past couple of seasons. He attributes this accomplishment to the hard work he has put in since joining the Lakers.
Since his trade, Hachimura has focused on his skill development, particularly in exploiting the defensive attention that James, Davis, and Doncic attract. “Those guys are gonna get a lot of attention, get double-teamed…that’s the kind of stuff I’ve been working on since I got here,” Hachimura stated. As he continues to refine his game, it’s clear he is determined to maximize his contributions to the team’s success.
Prior to their game against the Sacramento Kings, Hachimura had missed six straight games due to his calf issue. Although he was listed as available for the Kings match, he ultimately did not play. Redick mentioned that Hachimura would be restricted to just one game during the back-to-back stretch, with his return against the Atlanta Hawks anticipated under a managed minutes limitation of 18 minutes.
This season, Hachimura has played in 27 games, averaging 12.7 points and 3.8 rebounds with impressive shooting stats—52.1% from the field, 44.5% from three-point range, and 75% from the free-throw line. Such shooting percentages mark the second-best performances of his career. Initially, he is expected to come off the bench as he eases back into the lineup, with Jake LaRavia starting at forward for now.
Rui Hachimura’s return to the court represents not just a personal comeback but also a promising boost for the Lakers as they navigate a demanding schedule ahead.