Lakers Keep Fingers Crossed for Rui Hachimura’s Return from Injury Soon

Hachimura’s Return Uncertain, but Positive Signs Emerge for Lakers

Rui Hachimura’s anticipated return to the Los Angeles Lakers remains uncertain as he recovers from right calf soreness that sidelined him for six games. However, Coach JJ Redick indicated that Hachimura is progressing and may be ready to play as soon as Monday against the Sacramento Kings or Tuesday against the Atlanta Hawks at Crypto.com Arena.

Hachimura participated in practice on Sunday and remained active afterwards, a promising sign of his recovery. “He was able to do everything in practice,” Redick noted.

The forward has been engaged in rehabilitation for the past two weeks, attending practices and expressing a strong desire to rejoin his team. When asked about his potential participation in Monday’s game, Hachimura was optimistic. “I think so. I felt good after [practice], but I have to check with the trainers and everybody, and then we’ll see for tomorrow,” he stated.

Upon his return, Hachimura will have a minutes restriction and is likely to come off the bench, according to Redick. He has reported positive feelings about his calf injury, stating it has “healed,” which allowed him to practice with the South Bay Lakers, the G League affiliate of the Lakers.

In the 27 games he has played this season, Hachimura has averaged 12.7 points and 4.3 rebounds, shooting 52.1% from the field and 44.5% from beyond the arc. “I’m fine,” he confirmed. “I feel good about it.”

While mindful of the risks associated with calf injuries, especially in light of free agency approaching at the end of the season, Hachimura emphasized his primary concern is contributing to the Lakers’ success. “I think at the end of the day … I’m trying to help this team win. That’s the whole purpose of being here,” he said.

NBA Imposes Suspension on Kings Guard Schroder

In related news, the NBA has suspended Sacramento Kings guard Dennis Schroder for three games following a confrontation with Luka Doncic after a game on December 28. Coach Redick refrained from diving into details about the incident, stating, “It’s a league matter. They made their decision. And it’s up to them.”

Reports indicated that the altercation occurred about 40 minutes post-game, when Schroder sought out Doncic in a hallway at Crypto.com Arena. Tensions had flared during the game, with Doncic teasing Schroder about not signing an $84-million contract with the Lakers in 2021. Sources revealed that Schroder had been waiting in the hallway to confront Doncic.

When asked about his awareness of the situation, Redick responded, “There’s very few things I’m not aware of.” Schroder later commented on social media with a simple post: “Attempting,” accompanied by emojis.