Rui Hachimura Highlights Three-Point Progress Since Joining Lakers
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Los Angeles Lakers forward Rui Hachimura says refining his three-point shot has been the biggest change in his game since arriving from the Washington Wizards in 2023.
Speaking after the Lakers were eliminated from the 2026 playoffs, Hachimura recalled that he “didn’t really like shooting threes” early in his career and was uncertain about his role in Washington. Guidance from former Lakers assistant Phil Handy and the current coaching staff, however, convinced him to embrace the perimeter game.
“The first thing he talked about was three-pointers,” Hachimura said of Handy. “That was the biggest thing for me because, honestly, I don’t really like shooting threes … but I had to do it.”
The shift has produced historic numbers. Hachimura has converted at least 41% of his attempts from deep in each of the past three seasons, setting a franchise record by hitting 44.3% in 2025-26. During the 2026 postseason he averaged 17.5 points—up from 11.5 in the regular season—and knocked down 56.9% of his three-pointers, extending a league-record streak to 13 playoff games shooting 50% or better from beyond the arc.
With unrestricted free agency looming this summer, the 28-year-old said he has not focused on contract talks. “I haven’t even thought about free agency,” he told reporters.
Source: Lakers Nation
