The Los Angeles Lakers have been a bit shorthanded as Rui Hachimura has been sidelined by a calf injury.
Hachimura’s absence has provided more opportunities for players like Jake LaRavia and Jarred Vanderbilt, though the Lakers miss the forward’s ability to knock down open shots.
Fortunately, Hachimura has been trending up the past week and there is optimism that he can suit up against the Sacramento Kings on Monday.
In fact, the forward nearly confirmed that he would be suiting up after the Lakers’ recent practice.
“I’m fine. I think it’s been two weeks almost, so my calf is healed. We’ve been practicing, they were gone for a little bit so I was practicing here with the G League and trying to be healthy and get better and I feel good about it tomorrow,” he said.
Hachimura has dealt with calf injuries in the past, so he knows how important it is to stay on top of rehab.
“I had it for two years now, it’s a different side but the calf is really important. I was always work on it, but just the fatigue and all kind of recovery stuff you have to be really on it. But it happens and I think with this I have to be really careful and with the workouts, rehab and everything I got to take it the most serious.”
“Yeah, I think so. I think I feel good after, but I gotta check with the trainers and everybody and then we’ll see for tomorrow’s game.”
Hachimura has every incentive to come back and play well as he’s set to hit free agency this summer. While his future is uncertain, he said he’s focused on helping Los Angeles win games.
“I think end of the day I’m trying to help this team to win. That’s the whole purpose of being here. I’ve been here for three, four seasons now. I think I’m one of the guys that’s been longest here, too, so I’m happy to be here playing with these guys. The coaches, everybody, I love these guys. I think of course contract and stuff is coming up, but end of the day but I just try to focus on everyday. In the moment, trying to get through…second half is coming, too, so as a team and for me too we gotta ramp it up.”
Hachimura’s return will help bolster the depth on a Lakers roster that has looked thin at times this season. While he likely won’t see heavy minutes, the Kings offer a soft landing spot for Hachimura to get back into rhythm.
Rui Hachimura confident Lakers can turn things around
The Lakers have dropped back-to-back games, faltering against a better competition. While there are causes for concern, Hachimura believes the team can turn things around.
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