Sometimes injuries will give players a different look on the floor.
On Tuesday night, the Los Angeles Lakers secured a win over the Minnesota Timberwolves to even the series at a game apiece. While the Lakers jumped out to an early lead and held on for the win, it wasn’t always smooth sailing, especially for Rui Hachimura.
Since arriving in Los Angeles in 2023, Hachimura has been a key part of the Lakers’ success. With important roles in each of the Lakers’ playoff runs since his arrival, Hachimura needs to be on the floor for the Lakers to achieve their goals.
However, it appeared he might need to take some time off after suffering an injury early in Game 2. After taking a shot to the face early in the game, Hachimura went back to the locker room before emerging back onto the court wearing a mask later.
Hachimura would ditch that mask and play maskless for a bit before eventually returning with a different mask for the rest of the night. While it might not be Hachimura’s desired option, Lakers coach JJ Redick confirmed that he will be wearing a mask moving forward.
Although the mask won’t be a permanent solution, and Hachimura will be able to ditch it at some point if the Lakers’ playoff run continues, it is a necessary precaution going into Game 2. Beyond needing a mask, Redick said that Hachimura is fine.
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Hearing that news should be a welcome sight for Lakers fans, considering how important he has been for them this season. Along with his frame that makes him a reliable defender, Hachimura averaged 13.1 points and five rebounds this season while shooting 41.3% from 3-point range.
Through two games against Minnesota, Hachimura has yet to find a perfect groove, but there is no doubt that he will have some big games if the Lakers can go on a deep run.
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