After missing six games due to a right calf strain, Lakers forward Rui Hachimura will return to action this week. But according to head coach JJ Redick, that comeback includes a catch.
JJ Redick Grants Lakers Fans’ Wishes for Rui Hachimura’s Return
Redick Bringing Hachimura Off the Bench
During his media availability following a Sunday practice, Redick told reporters that Hachimura would be placed on a minutes restriction upon his return.
“He’s gonna be on a minutes restriction when he comes back. So, he’ll likely come off the bench similar to what we did with AR [Austin Reaves] when he was on his minutes restriction. His minutes are gonna be determined if he is available. Whether it’s tomorrow, Tuesday, he’ll be available this week and we’ll figure it out.”
In 27 starts this season, Hachimura averaged 12.7 points and 3.8 rebounds while shooting 52% from the field and 44% from three. But despite his efficient offensive output next to Reaves, Luka Doncic and LeBron James, concerns began to emerge over his one-way playing style and true fit within the lineup. Some insiders, fans and former players have recently pushed for Hachimura to head to the bench, a desire that Redick has finally fulfilled with this decision.
With Hachimura sidelined, two-way wing Jake LaRavia has answered the call tremendously, immensely helping his case to become a permanent starter going forward. Since entering the first unit for Hachimura on Dec. 30, LaRavia has averaged 15.0 points, 5.3 rebounds and 2.0 steals per game. He’s done so on remarkably efficient shooting splits, going 53% from the field, 40% from deep and 81% from the free-throw line. Expect LaRavia’s strong play to continue going forward, balancing the Lakers’ offensive-minded starting lineup with toughness and intensity on the defensive end of the floor.
Hachimura Provides Update on his Health
In his post-practice remarks to the media, Hachimura confirmed that he’s all set to come back at some point this week.
“I’m fine. I think it’s been two weeks almost, so my calf is healed. We’ve been practicing, they were gone for a little bit so I was practicing here with the G League and trying to be healthy and get better and I feel good about it tomorrow.”
Despite being on an expiring contract this season, Hachimura remains committed to his role with the purple and gold:
“I think [at the] end of the day, I’m trying to help this team to win. That’s the whole purpose of being here. I’ve been here for three, four seasons now. I think I’m one of the guys that’s been [the] longest here, too. So I’m happy to be here playing with these guys, the coaches, everybody, I love these guys. I think of course contract and stuff is coming up, but end of the day but I just try to focus on everyday, in the moment. … Second half is coming, too, so as a team and for me too we gotta ramp it up.”
The Lakers begin the week with another back-to-back, facing the Kings in Sacramento on Monday at 7 p.m. and the Hawks at home Tuesday at 7:30 p.m.
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