Rui Hachimura is the secret sauce behind the Lakers' turnaround https://t.co/9OSc1b1Yh9
— LakerTom (@LakerTom) April 6, 2024
The 26-year-old may not get the touches or recognition his teammates do, but Rui Hachimura is making the most of every opportunity with the Lakers.
Not too cold and not too hot, Hachimura has been just right next to the Lakers’ star front court.
He’s made enough progress on defense to help take on the opposition’s best scorers while also being mindful of his off-ball responsibilities as the low man. And when the miss happens, Hachimura has been noticeably more active on the glass.
“I think the way he’s making the most strides is his defense,” Ham said following the Lakers’ win over the Wizards on Wednesday. “His communication, his ability to guard the ball, he’s getting better and better at keeping the ball in front (of him) and defensive rebounding. Those are the areas where I’m extremely proud of him.”
Hachimura may never be as dynamic a defender as Vanderbilt, but at 6’8” and 230 pounds, he has the frame and explosiveness to make things difficult. The same rings true when it comes to rebounding.
Given how physically small the Lakers’ starting backcourt is and James’ inconsistent effort in ending defensive possessions, Hachimura being more of a presence on the boards has helped take some of the massive responsibility off of Davis’ shoulders.
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