TITLE: JJ Redick Highlights Rui Hachimura’s Breakout Postseason for Lakers
SLUG: jj-redick-praises-rui-hachimura-playoff-breakout
CONTENT:
Los Angeles Lakers head coach JJ Redick credited forward Rui Hachimura for anchoring the club’s offense during the 2026 NBA Playoffs, calling the 28-year-old a key reason the injury-hit roster advanced to the Western Conference semifinals.
Across 10 postseason games, Hachimura averaged 17.5 points while shooting 54.9 percent from the floor and 56.9 percent from three-point range. His surge came with guard Austin Reaves sidelined for four contests and guard Luka Doncic out with a Grade 2 left hamstring strain.
Redick impressed by improved shooting
Redick said Hachimura’s ability to stretch the floor was a pivotal development. During preseason workouts ahead of Redick’s first year in charge, the coaching staff debated whether the forward’s outside touch was sustainable. Player-development coach Beau Levesque backed the progress, and Redick noted that some colleagues were skeptical at the time. After watching Hachimura convert at an elite clip this spring, Redick said the locker room no longer doubts his perimeter game.
The coach also praised Hachimura’s decision-making, pointing to quick reads on when to fire from deep or attack closeouts. Redick added that seeing a player thrive under playoff pressure is “a joy” for the staff.
From mid-range scorer to perimeter threat
Early in his career with the Washington Wizards, Hachimura relied heavily on post-ups and mid-range jumpers. Since joining Los Angeles in a trade, he has expanded his range beyond the arc, giving the Lakers an additional floor-spacer alongside LeBron James, Reaves and Anthony Davis.
Free agency on the horizon
Hachimura can enter free agency in roughly a month, and several teams are expected to pursue the versatile wing. Within the Lakers’ pending class of up to eight free agents, he is widely viewed as the third-highest priority behind James and Reaves. Asked about his future, Hachimura said he has not focused on contract matters and will let his agent handle negotiations.
The Lakers defeated the Oklahoma City Thunder May 9 at Crypto.com Arena in Game 3 of the Western Conference semifinals, where Hachimura battled Thunder center Chet Holmgren as part of his standout run.
Source: LakersNation.com
