Rui Hachimura has voiced concerns regarding the Los Angeles Lakers’ unity following a disappointing defeat against the Phoenix Suns. In a game where his offensive contributions were minimal, Hachimura managed only one shot attempt, significantly below his average of ten per game.
Game Overview and Hachimura’s Comments
After the game, Hachimura expressed his frustration, stating, “I don’t remember when I had the ball this whole game.” His comments highlight a larger issue regarding the team’s offensive strategy. He mentioned, “I signed up for that. I understand it. But with this, I think the whole team knows that’s not how we’re going to win.”
Lack of Team Cohesion
Hachimura pointed out that the Lakers have found success when players trust and support one another on the court. He elaborated on this effective teamwork, indicating that passing and ball movement are crucial to their victories. “Those games that we’ve been winning, we’ve been passing to each other, we’ve been trusting each other, we play for each other,” he explained.
Need for Offensive Involvement
The game against the Suns marked a missed opportunity for the Lakers, particularly in utilizing Hachimura’s skills as a scorer and floor spacer. A game where he only takes one shot is unacceptable, especially when his talent can significantly contribute to the team’s overall performance.
Looking Forward
Hachimura acknowledged that tough games happen throughout the long NBA season. He emphasized the importance of mental resilience, stating, “This is going to happen at some point. But I don’t think we should really think or talk about this. We just got to clear out and we have to rest.”
Preparing for Future Games
With the NBA schedule demanding quick turnarounds, Hachimura stressed the need for the Lakers to reset and prepare for upcoming games. “This is one of those games we kind of have to reset and we have to make another run,” he remarked.
The Lakers must take this lesson to heart: maintaining the involvement of their best offensive players is essential for future success.
