Rui Hachimura took the trade rumors personally. After being bashed for inconsistency amid his expensive contract, he is having his best season as a Laker yet. In 13 games so far, Hachimura is averaging a career-high 15.8 points per game, shooting at a whopping 57.7% while being a defensive standout. “Nobody talks about him, but he deserves a lot of credit in our wins,” Luka Doncic said after their Hornets win. “He’s been amazing for us, and the way he plays like every game, it just helps us a lot, especially to win games.”

Unfortunately for the Lakers, Hachimura has reportedly been ruled out of their game against the Milwaukee Bucks. It piles on the injury woes for JJ Redick as he already has LeBron James out with a sciatica issue, and Gabe Vincent is nursing a left ankle sprain.  Let’s dive in and look at what exactly the issue is with Rui Hachimura and when we can expect him back contributing in a Laker shirt. 

What Happened to Rui Hachimura?

Rui Hachimura is ruled out of their game against the Bucks, with Dan Woike, a Lakers insider for The Athletic, citing a sore calf. It could also be some load management for Hachimura, who has played 34.6 minutes per game in each of their 13 games so far. Since this is a back-to-back game, the management would likely prevent any long-term injury. 

Earlier this year, Hachimura was diagnosed with left patellar tendinopathy. It is essentially an overuse/degenerative issue in the tendon connecting the kneecap to the shin.

It is a recurring condition that can trouble Hachimura if not carefully managed. There is a possibility it might be connected to his calf issue, but we can’t know for sure. 

What Is Rui Hachimura’s Injury Status and Expected Return Date?

Hachimura is currently out for their game against the Bucks. The extent of Hachimura’s injury is unknown.

However, he is expected to be back up and ready for the game against the Utah Jazz. Hachimura will get enough rest (4 days) and return on November 18. He has established himself as a cornerstone of this Lakers side, so Redick will want his abilities back on the floor as soon as possible, unless the injury worsens. 

How Will the Los Angeles Lakers Line Up Without Rui Hachimura?

Hachimura’s absence frees up plenty of minutes. Replacing him in the starting lineup will likely be Jake Laravia. Beyond Laravia, Jarred Vanderbilt and Dalton Knecht should see some minutes.

Rookie Adou Thiero was listed as available for their last game against the Pelicans, but JJ Redick decided to delay his debut. However, with Hachimura out, we could also see some minutes for Thiero. 

Tactically, Hachimura’s absence brings up one big question. Who will guard Giannis Antetokounmpo, assuming he plays? Marcus Smart is a valuable defender, along with Jarred Vanderbilt.

Smart is listed as questionable with a viral illness. So, even he could miss this match-up, making things stickier. One of the two would have to take responsibility for limiting one of the best players in the league. Giannis is averaging 32.6 points, 11.5 rebounds, and 7.3 assists, a menace from all parts of the court. 

The three of Deandre Ayton, Luka Doncic, and Austin Reaves will have a heavier load without someone like Hachimura on offense and defense. Rui is also shooting 50% from the three-point line at 4 attempts per game.

So the Lakers might have to look towards some extra outside help as well. While Hachimura sits on the sidelines, this is still expected to be a spicy one. The Luka vs Giannis narrative just fuels the tension.