The Los Angeles Lakers have high hopes for forward Rui Hachimura in his first season with the team, and general manager Rob Pelinka knows why. The former Gonzaga Bulldog and Washington Wizard averaged just over 11 points per game last season and did an excellent job complementing the Lakers’ veterans.
Pelinka detailed the extreme efforts the Lakers went to in order to land Christian Wood this offseason. Lakers head coach Davin Hamm recently revealed the team’s starting point guard as part of the offseason’s ongoing changes.
On Thursday, September 28, it was revealed that Pelinka has high hopes for Hachimura this season because of his world-famous training partner: LeBron James.
“Watching Rui come here after the trade, it’s been like a personal renaissance for him. “He’s active again as a player… He’s been working out with LeBron most of the time (this offseason) — —This is intentional. ” —Rob Pelinka pic.twitter.com/4X7RiIYXl0
— Los Angeles Lakers (@Lakers) September 28, 2023
Fans were delighted with the news, recalling his performances for Hammers last season.
We look forward to u Rui Hachimura doing great things this year👀, let’s work hard together
— NYCDaFuture (@NYCDaFuture_) September 28, 2023
Hachimura failed to average 10 points per game throughout the season with the Lakers, but he won the favor of Lakers fans with a series of outstanding performances in the playoffs. In 33 games with the Lakers, he averaged 9.6 points and 4.7 rebounds, including 9 starts.
It’s unclear if Hachimura will start the season with Christian Wood on board, but Los Angeles should have one of the best frontcourts in the league with Anthony Davis, James, Hachimura and Wood next season They all play for the team. With Austin Reeves on the perimeter, the Lakers have a balanced mix of veterans and young talent.
The big question now is whether Hachimura will be able to fulfill his talents after training with the NBA’s all-time scoring leader.