Luka Dončić praises Rui Hachimura in postgame comments

The Los Angeles Lakers are off to their best start in years, sitting at 8–3 and ranking third in the Western Conference. Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves are both averaging 30+ points, Deandre Ayton has solidified himself as a dominant interior presence, and JJ Redick continues to impress in just his second season as head coach.

But there’s one player who hasn’t received nearly enough credit — Rui Hachimura. The 27-year-old forward is putting together the best campaign of his career, averaging 16.3 points and 2.0 made threes per game while shooting a blistering 58.6% from the field and 52.4% from deep — all career highs. His consistency has been a quiet driving force behind Los Angeles’ offensive rhythm.

Hachimura’s most recent performance came in Monday night’s win over the Charlotte Hornets, where he poured in 21 points on 9-for-12 shooting and a perfect 3-for-3 from beyond the arc. His efficiency and composure have made him one of the team’s most reliable scoring options, especially when opponents focus heavily on Doncic and Reaves. The effort didn’t go unnoticed by his superstar teammate.

“It helps us win games,” Doncic said postgame. “Like I said, he helps us. Even in that Atlanta game, very underrated — nobody talks about him. Amazing player, the way he plays every game helps us a lot.”

Luka on the impending return of LeBron James, who is set to begin practicing with the South Bay Lakers. pic.twitter.com/p2AK64uZv8

Hachimura, now in his fourth season with Los Angeles, has quietly transitioned from a rotational piece to a dependable contributor. Having averaged double figures every year of his career, this season feels like his true breakthrough. Injuries across the roster have opened the door for increased opportunities, and he’s seized them with confidence.

He’s already tallied three 20+ point games, including a season-high 28 points on 66.7% shooting against the Portland Trail Blazers. His shot selection, defensive positioning, and off-ball movement have all taken notable strides — traits the Lakers have long needed from their supporting cast.

It’s clear as day that Hachimura has thrived in the absence of LeBron James, who continues to rehab from sciatica in his back. And while most of the scoring spotlight will remain on Doncic and Reaves, Hachimura’s poise and efficiency could quietly be what keeps Los Angeles near the top of the standings.

If he continues this trajectory, Hachimura might not just be one of the Lakers’ best-kept secrets — he could be the X-factor that determines how far they go this season.

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