The Lakers’ loss to the Suns wasn’t just a bad night - it was a breakdown of the very principles that make this team competitive. And nowhere was that more evident than in Rui Hachimura’s stat line, or lack thereof.
Hachimura, who averages around 10 shots per game, took just one shot in 23 minutes of floor time. That’s not just unusual - it’s alarming.
This isn’t a guy who disappears from games. He’s a starter for a reason: he spaces the floor, knocks down threes, and gives the Lakers a reliable scoring option in the half court.
When he’s not involved, it’s not just a quiet night - it’s a sign something’s gone wrong.
After the game, Hachimura didn’t sugarcoat it.
“I don’t remember when I had the ball this whole game,” he said. “I mean, this happens playing with these guys.
I signed up for that. I understand it.
But with this, I think the whole team, everybody knows that’s not how we’re going to win.”
That last part hits the heart of the issue. The Lakers have shown flashes of what they can be when the ball moves, when everyone touches it, when trust fuels the offense.
That wasn’t the case against the Suns. The offense stalled, the ball stuck, and Hachimura - arguably their best three-point shooter - was left on the margins.
This isn’t about demanding more touches for the sake of it. It’s about understanding how this team is built to win.
The Lakers aren’t a heliocentric offense like Dallas, where Luka Dončić dominates every possession. They succeed when the ball moves, when shooters are found in rhythm, and when players like Hachimura are given the green light to do what they do best.
If Hachimura’s only getting one shot, something’s off. It’s not a knock on the stars - it’s a call for balance.
Because when the Lakers are at their best, it’s not just LeBron and AD carrying the load. It’s the supporting cast stepping up, hitting open looks, and keeping defenses honest.
To be clear: this is one game. A blip.
No one’s sounding the alarm after one poor showing. Hachimura himself kept it in perspective.
“It’s a long season,” he said. “This is going to happen at some point.
But I don’t think we should really think or talk about this. We just got to clear out and we have to rest.
We have to prepare for the next game.”
And he’s right. The NBA season moves fast.
There’s no time to dwell. But there is time to learn.
And the takeaway from this loss is clear: if you’re going to roll out a five-man lineup with Hachimura in it, you’ve got to use him. Get him touches.
Get him looks. Because when he’s involved, the Lakers are a far more dangerous team.
This game? Toss it.
Forget it. But don’t forget the lesson.
Keep your scorers engaged - especially when the offense is searching for answers.