Lakers’ Streak Snapped in Phoenix as Rui Hachimura Voices Frustration After Scoreless Night
The Lakers rolled into Phoenix riding the high of a seven-game winning streak, but they left with more questions than answers after a humbling 125-108 loss to the Suns. It wasn’t just the final score that stung - it was how the game unfolded, especially for forward Rui Hachimura, who had one of the most puzzling performances of his season.
Hachimura, a player many believed was poised for a breakout year, was nearly invisible on the stat sheet. In 23 minutes of action, he attempted just one shot and finished the game scoreless. For a player who’s carved out a reputation as a reliable scoring option off the bench, that kind of outing was jarring - and clearly frustrating.
After the game, Hachimura didn’t mince words when asked about his lack of involvement.
“I don’t remember when I had the ball this whole game,” he said. “I mean, that’s happened.
Playing with these guys, I signed up for that. I understand it… But with this, I think the whole team, everyone knows and understands, that’s not how we’re gonna win.”
That’s a telling quote. Hachimura’s not pointing fingers, but he’s making it clear: the ball movement - or lack thereof - isn’t where it needs to be.
And he’s not wrong. During the Lakers’ recent win streak, the offense had been humming.
The ball was moving, guys were getting touches, and role players like Hachimura were thriving. Against the Suns, that rhythm disappeared.
Hachimura elaborated further, pointing to the contrast between this game and the ones they’d been winning. The common thread in those victories?
Trust, ball movement, and shared opportunities. That cohesion was missing in Phoenix.
This isn’t just about one off night. It’s about the broader context of how Hachimura fits into this Lakers offense - especially when LeBron James is on the floor. And the numbers back up what Hachimura is feeling.
According to NBA analyst Iztok Franko, Hachimura actually drives to the basket more when LeBron is not on the court - 5.8 drives per 100 possessions without LeBron, compared to 3.6 with him. But here’s the twist: when LeBron is on the floor, Hachimura gets more shots at the rim - 5.7 per 100 possessions versus 5.2 without him.
That’s a classic example of LeBron’s gravitational pull at work. Even if Hachimura isn’t initiating as much, LeBron’s playmaking creates easier looks for him.
So while Hachimura’s touches might dip when the King is in command, the quality of those touches often improves. The challenge is finding that balance - keeping Hachimura engaged and involved, while still capitalizing on LeBron’s ability to orchestrate.
Let’s not forget, Hachimura was quietly efficient last season. He averaged 13.1 points and five rebounds per game, shot 50% from the field, and knocked down over 41% of his threes.
That’s not just solid - that’s the kind of production that can swing playoff games when it matters. The Lakers need that version of Hachimura, and he needs the opportunity to be that guy consistently.
The Suns game was a step backward, no doubt. But it also served as a reminder: for the Lakers to reach their ceiling, they’ll need more than just LeBron and AD doing the heavy lifting. They’ll need players like Hachimura to feel empowered, involved, and ready to contribute.
For now, the streak is over. The Lakers head back to the drawing board, and Hachimura will look to bounce back. If there’s one thing we’ve learned about this team - and this player - it’s that both have the tools to respond.