Rui Hachimura Injury Update: When Will Los Angeles Lakers Star Return To Action?

Lakers' Rui Hachimura Given Unfortunate Injury Update Following Knee Issue

The Los Angeles Lakers have been dealing with a series of injury setbacks, and forward Rui Hachimura remains among the key players sidelined. Hachimura suffered a knee injury during a win over the Minnesota Timberwolves on February 27 after attempting a dunk and appearing visibly uncomfortable upon landing. Since then, he has missed five consecutive games due to left patellar tendinopathy.

Before tipoff on Saturday night, Lakers head coach JJ Redick provided an update on Hachimura’s recovery. Redick confirmed that Hachimura is in the “return to play” protocol. However, Redick remained quick to admit that the LA team won’t have another update on his status until sometime next week.

“He’s doing well, ramping up some on-court stuff. I’ll have an update probably in a week for you,” Redick said.

The injury came at an unfortunate time for the forward, who had been playing a key role for the team. In the game against Minnesota, he posted five points, three rebounds, and two assists before exiting. Prior to his injury, Hachimura was averaging 13.3 points, 5.2 rebounds, and 1.5 assists per game.

How Rui Hachimura’s Injury Has Appeared As A Silver Lining For The Lakers?

Rui Hachimura
Rui Hachimura (Photo by Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images)

The Lakers have been surging in the standings late in the season, and before Saturday’s 111-101 loss to the Boston Celtics, they held the second seed in the Western Conference. However, injuries have started to take a toll. Jaxon Hayes missed their most recent game due to a right knee contusion. Meanwhile, LeBron James suffered a groin strain on Saturday, which is expected to keep him out for several weeks.

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Despite these setbacks, the Lakers have found ways to remain competitive. The absence of Rui Hachimura and Reaves has allowed other players to step up. Gabe Vincent, Jordan Goodwin, and rookie Dalton Knecht have all seen increased minutes and taken advantage of their opportunities.

Hachimura will remain out for the Lakers’ current road trip, which includes games against the Brooklyn Nets, the Milwaukee Bucks, and the Denver Nuggets. The Lakers hope to get Hachimura and the rest of their key players back to full strength. Until then, they will continue to rely on their depth to maintain their strong position.