With Luka Dončić settling well in Purple and Gold, the Los Angeles Lakers have finally found their rhythm. In the final stretch of the season, the Lakers, powered by the LeBron James and Dončić duo, are on a seven-game winning streak. However, fresh injury concerns have emerged that could derail the Lakers’ momentum.
Rui Hachimura, a key piece in LA’s rotation, left the game against the Minnesota Timberwolves with a knee issue, sparking immediate concern. Later, the Lakers revealed that the 27-year-old power forward is suffering from patellar tendinopathy. Now, an NBA insider has shared an important update on his status—one that could shape the Lakers’ plans heading into the postseason.
Daniel Starkand of Lakers Nation Shares Crucial Update on Hachimura’s Injury
Daniel Starkand of Lakers Nation provided a fresh update on Friday, shedding light on the uncertainty surrounding Hachimura’s availability. He relayed head coach JJ Redick’s statement that there is no definitive timeline for the 6’8” forward’s return.
Despite the worrying nature of knee injuries, the Lakers remain optimistic. Starkand reported that Hachimura was set for a re-evaluation on Friday, March 7, and, in a promising sign, is expected to travel with the team for their upcoming road trip. While that doesn’t confirm a return date, it suggests the injury may not be as severe as initially feared.
This is what Starkand shared on X:
“JJ Redick says Rui Hachimura’s re-evaluation date is tomorrow. He expects Rui to travel with the team on the upcoming road trip, though.”
For those asking for a Rui update, looks like tomorrow will be an important day https://t.co/7R1ilCfsj9
— Trevor Lane (@Trevor_Lane) March 7, 2025
This update is crucial for LA, as Hachimura has been a vital contributor. He’s averaging 13.3 points and 5.2 rebounds, and shooting 41% from three—his two-way skills have been key to the Lakers’ recent push.
If Hachimura misses time, the Lakers will need other players to step up. Gabe Vincent, Jordan Goodwin, and rookie Dalton Knecht are expected to see increased minutes. But LA might also get a boost from another returning star—Austin Reaves.
Reaves, sidelined since February 28 with a right calf injury, has been missed. The 25-year-old guard is averaging 19.2 points, 4.2 rebounds, and six assists this season, giving the Lakers another offensive option to support the LeBron-Luka duo. According to The Athletic’s Jovan Buha, Reaves is targeting a return this week, possibly against the Knicks or Celtics.
“It seems like Austin is going to be back at some point this week, potentially against the Knicks, and if not, potentially against Boston on Saturday,” Buha said on his podcast.
The Lakers have seen a massive surge in their league standings late in the season. They are second in the West and now boast a 39-21 record. With Hachimura and Reaves both expected to make their comebacks soon, the Lakers seem poised to enter the postseason with a healthy roster—good news for a team pushing for its 18th title.