Lakers Share Update on Rui Hachimura’s Injury Following Nine-Game Absence
The Los Angeles Lakers are set to regain another key starter after weeks without him.
By Cem Yolbulan.

The Lakers have faced multiple injuries to crucial players. While LeBron James’ groin injury has been the main focus, Rui Hachimura’s prolonged absence has also significantly impacted the team.

Hachimura sustained a left knee strain on February 27 in a matchup against the Minnesota Timberwolves and was ruled out indefinitely. Since then, he has not played. With James also sidelined, the Lakers lacked depth on the wing, which contributed to a four-game losing streak.

However, Lakers fans have reason to be optimistic, as ESPN’s Shams Charania has reported that the team expects Hachimura to return this week.

Shams: The Lakers believe Rui Hachimura (knee) could be back within a week.

Lakers News: Rui Hachimura Likely to Return “Within a Week”

The Lakers snapped their losing streak with a home victory over the Phoenix Suns on Sunday, improving to a 41-25 record. They remain just one game behind the No. 2 seed, the Houston Rockets. With only 16 regular-season games remaining, the Lakers need a healthy roster to secure home-court advantage in the first round of the playoffs.

After acquiring Luka Dončić at the trade deadline, Hachimura’s role has become even more critical. The 27-year-old is one of the team’s few two-way players, capable of hitting open shots and defending effectively while adding size and strength. Since joining the Lakers at the 2022-23 trade deadline, the Japanese forward has shot 40% from three-point range, averaging 12.6 points, 4.7 rebounds, and 1.2 assists in 27.6 minutes per game.

Head coach JJ Redick will have to rely on small-ball lineups for the remainder of the season and into the playoffs, as Jaxson Hayes is the team’s only viable center. The contributions of Hachim