- LeBron James and Rui Hachimura have been working out together
- James thinks Hachimura can be a great player
- Hachimura’s improvement can greatly aid the Lakers
Forward Rui Hachimura is one of the best role players on the Los Angeles Lakers, well-known for his positional versatility and athleticism. The Lakers notably retained Hachimura in free agency this year on a three-year deal, and it is clear that they believe he has plenty of untapped potential.
Recently, Rob Pelinka revealed that Rui Hachimura has been working out with LeBron James consistently this summer, and touted that as the potential reason for his “strength and athleticism” reaching a different level.
“I think watching Rui come here after the trade sort of felt like a personal renaissance for him. He just came alive as a player again, and he parlayed that this offseason with really incredible work,” Pelinka said per Jesse Cinquini of Lakers Daily. “He spent most of his time training with LeBron. I think that was really intentional, and I know the coaching staff and the front office, in the days where we’ve had some individual work in here, he’s playing with an extremely high level of confidence and belief. I think his strength and athleticism look like they’re at a different level.”
Of course, hard work during the offseason doesn’t always translate to results on the court. However, most of the time when a player puts in the hours, good things are bound to happen. Rui Hachimura has the physical tools to be a truly elite two-way player, and with LeBron James’ guidance, perhaps he can reach the next level as a player.
Last season, Rui Hachimura averaged 12.2 points and 3.6 rebounds for the Lakers in the playoffs, while shooting 55.7% from the field and 48.7% from 3PT range. He was a big reason they won the series against the Memphis Grizzlies, and it is clear that Hachimura shows up in the biggest moments.
LeBron James Has A High Opinion Of Rui Hachimura
There is no doubt that LeBron James has a high opinion of Rui Hachimura, and previously, we saw James speak on Hachimura, claiming that the team doesn’t need him to fit in, but “fit out” instead. It is clear that James wants Hachimura to find success, and his working out with Hachimura might help with that.
One thing that Rui Hachimura can learn from LeBron James is how to use his physicality effectively. Hachimura is 6’8 with a 7’2 wingspan: he can become a great slasher, and perhaps this summer will help him unlock that part of his game.
What Should Expectations Be For Rui Hachimura?
Rui Hachimura is projected to be the starting PF for the Los Angeles Lakers, and he will have plenty of opportunities to score open looks created by LeBron James and Anthony Davis. The offense will obviously be important, but the real key for the team will be for Hachimura to improve his rebounding and defense, as that is what will keep Hachimura on the court.
As of right now, Rui Hachimura is 25 years old, and it is clear that he still has room to grow as a player. The Los Angeles Lakers have helped many players improve their play (and subsequently their value) over the past few years, and perhaps they can do the same for Rui Hachimura. The work has clearly been put in, and now all that is left is to show it on the court.
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