The Los Angeles Lakers have been without key contributors over the last two weeks, but one of their starting forwards, Rui Hachimura, is expected to return to the lineup against the Sacramento Kings on Monday.
JJ Redick after practice on Sunday said Hachimura was a full participant in practice, according to Lakers Nation’s Daniel Starkand. Hachimura then confirmed to local media that the plan is to play against the Kings.
Redick detailed that Hachimura will likely come off the bench as a part of his recovery and ramp-up process and will be on a minutes restriction. Once the restriction is lifted, Redick still isn’t sure if the sharpshooting forward will return to the starting lineup. Jake LaRavia has been starting in his place.
MORE: 7-time NBA champion rips Luka Doncic after poor outing against Milwaukee
Hachimura’s fit with the Lakers
Fans and media had been clamoring for Hachimura to move to the bench before he got injured. He is part of some of the Lakers’ worst statistical five-man lineups.
Despite that, Hachimura has had a quality season. He’s averaging 12.7 points and 3.8 rebounds per game shooting 57.8% on 2-pointers and 44.5% from beyond the arc, which is on pace for his best shooting season as a Laker.
Where the problem lies is his defensive proclivities and how they are only exaggerated next to LeBron James and Luka Doncic. Los Angeles could benefit from a defensive stalwart (like Marcus Smart) taking Hachimura’s place.
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