There were a number of milestones and accomplishments for the Los Angeles Lakers in their victory over the Cleveland Cavaliers. One that won’t get nearly as much recognition, but is undoubtedly important, is Rui Hachimura reaching 5,000 career points.
Hachimura has become one of the most important pieces on the Lakers over the past couple of seasons. His 3-point shooting has improved immensely with him knocking down over 43% from 3-point range this year, marking the third consecutive season he has shot over 41% from deep. He has also moved into a bench role after operating primarily as a starter since coming to L.A. and has transitioned seamlessly, embracing and thriving as a reserve.
When the Lakers first acquired Hachimura in 2023, it was unclear just how good he was and how he would fit on the team. But he has developed greatly, not only with his shooting, but also defensively as well as crashing the boards.
Hachimura has been a big part of the Lakers outstanding run as of late with the team clicking on all cylinders and the forward credited the leaders on the team with really helping to bring everyone together.
“I think it starts with LeBron [James], Luka [Doncic], Austin [Reaves, Marcus [Smart],” Hachimura said. “There’s a lot of vets here leading the whole team. For us I think we have a big personality as a team. And I think throughout the season we started understanding each other off the court and on the court. We have better communication now and that helps. It starts with those guys that I mentioned. I think we gotta keep building it for the playoffs and we’re gonna be fine.”
Delivering in the playoffs will be the next important step for Hachimura and he has certainly had some moments in the postseason for the Lakers. Others may lead the way, but the performance of Hachimura will go a long way towards how far this Lakers team advances in the postseason.
Luka Doncic breaks Kobe Bryant Lakers record; joins Michael Jordan in NBA history
There was plenty of history made for the Lakers including LeBron James becoming the winningest player in NBA history and head coach JJ Redick reaching 100 career coaching wins. But as has usually been the case, it was once again Luka Doncic stealing the show.
Doncic broke Kobe Bryant’s franchise record for points in the month of March while also joining Michael Jordan as the only players to score 600 points in the month.
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