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UPDATE: It turns out there may have been some reason for optimism. After Friday’s win over the Clippers, head coach JJ Redick revealed that Rui Hachimura had been diagnosed with left patellar tendinopathy.
He is set to be re-evaluated in a week.
All things considered, this isn’t the worst outcome. Measuring his potential return in weeks, and not months, is a positive. Here’s to a quick recovery for Rui so that he can get back on the floor.
Original story follows.
Rui Hachimura has been a vital piece for the Lakers this season. He’s been a mainstay in the starting lineup and a consistent contributor as a role player.
Particularly in recent weeks since the Luka Dončić trade, Rui had seemingly found another level and upped his production. All that makes Thursday’s injury both frustrating and concerning.
After a fastbreak dunk in the third quarter against the Wolves, Rui came up lame and limped to the locker room. He would be ruled out the remainder of the game and did not play on against the Clippers.
Prior to Friday’s contest, head coach JJ Redick provided an update on Rui’s status.
“[We’re] still getting more information,” Redick said. “We’re optimistic this is not a serious injury, bu we’re still not quite clear on when he will be available to play. But, yeah, we’re optimistic.
“I believe he’s had some imaging done. Again, we’re optimistic this is not a serious injury. Trying to gather all information. He hasn’t been examined by [team physician] Dr. [Kristofer] Jones yet. So, once that happens, we’ll have a full update.”
Fortunately, the Lakers will remain at home into next week, which should allow the process to move along a little more quickly.
This season, Rui is averaging 13.3 points per game while shooting 50.6% from the field and 41% from the 3-point line, the latter mark being the highest percentage on the team.
He’s averaging the most rebounds (5.2) and assists (1.5) since his sophomore season while he’s at career-high averages for steals and blocks per game.
“Thirty-four minutes of playing time of a guy who plays really well on both ends and has done a really good job of executing our schemes defensively,” Redick said of what the Lakers will miss with Rui out. “I think his ability to space, crash, punish smaller defenders, cut, we’re gonna miss them on both ends of the floor.”
With the Lakers set for a grueling March schedule, being at full strength will be paramount. For that reason, among others, getting him back as soon as possible will be the hope.
You can follow Jacob on Twitter at @JacobRude or on Bluesky at @jacobrude.bsky.social.
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