Rui Hachimura isn’t always the first name mentioned when the Lakers take the floor, but over the past couple of seasons, he’s quietly become one of the team’s most reliable contributors. Whether it’s knocking down threes at a high clip or digging in on the glass, Hachimura has carved out a crucial role in L.A.’s rotation-and his recent absence due to a calf injury reminded everyone just how valuable he is.
Since returning to action, the Lakers have handled Hachimura with care. He’s been on a minutes restriction and coming off the bench, but he’s starting to find his rhythm again. His 10-point performance in the win over the Toronto Raptors marked his second straight game in double figures-a promising sign that he’s trending in the right direction.
After the game, Hachimura acknowledged that he’s still working his way back into full form.
“I’m still on a minutes restriction and still trying to get back to my rhythm,” he said. “But those kinds of stuff help me.
It’s a long season, we’re at the halfway point. So yeah, as a team we have to connect to each other again.”
That connection will be tested immediately. The Lakers are about to embark on an eight-game road trip, starting with a heavyweight matchup against the defending champion Denver Nuggets. It’s the kind of stretch where depth matters, and having Hachimura back-even in a limited role-could be a difference-maker.
Physically, he says he’s fine. The calf is still getting treatment, but there’s no indication of a setback. It’s more about managing the workload and making sure he’s fully ready when the team needs him most.
“I’m fine. Just still getting back into my rhythm,” he said. “With the calf, still getting treatment and all that, so yeah, gotta keep doing it.”
Calf injuries can be tricky-ask Austin Reaves, who’s also dealing with one. The Lakers are understandably cautious.
Hachimura’s blend of size, shooting, and defensive improvement makes him a key piece in their puzzle. Rushing him back isn’t worth the risk.
Even with his current bench role, Hachimura’s presence brings value. He spaces the floor, plays with physicality, and gives the second unit a scoring punch. Whether or not he returns to the starting lineup, his ability to contribute on both ends is exactly what the Lakers need as they gear up for a critical part of the season.
Meanwhile, head coach JJ Redick had high praise for another key rotation player: Jarred Vanderbilt. Known for his defensive tenacity, Vanderbilt has embraced his role and made a major impact over the past month. Redick called him a “star in his role,” and that’s exactly what the Lakers need-guys who know their job and execute it at a high level.
As the Lakers prepare for this pivotal road trip, they’ll be leaning on their depth, their defense, and the continued return to form of players like Hachimura. If he can stay healthy and keep building momentum, he could be a major factor down the stretch.