Rui Hachimura Expects Larger Offensive Role While LeBron James Recovers From Sciatica
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The Los Angeles Lakers will open the 2025-26 season without LeBron James, who is sidelined by right-side sciatica that could keep him out for about a month. Forward Rui Hachimura said the four-time MVP’s absence will push him to expand his game beyond the spot-up shooting role he has filled in recent years.
“I just gotta be more aggressive,” Hachimura told reporters after Sunday’s preseason victory over the Golden State Warriors. “With him being out, I can attack the rim more … He likes to post up, so when that happens I have to be spaced out. I can do more when he’s out.”
Hachimura, 27, has started regularly alongside James, Luka Doncic, Austin Reaves and Anthony Davis, primarily serving as a floor-spacer and offensive rebounder. James’ injury now offers the forward an extended audition in a contract year.
Head coach JJ Redick said before the injury that Hachimura already appeared more self-assured on the court. “What I’ve seen in the last few weeks is just a higher level of confidence,” Redick noted. “Rui is playing with a lot of confidence … and is an absolute pleasure to coach.”
Redick added that the organization will be cautious with the 40-year-old James, who is entering his 23rd NBA season. Until the league’s all-time scoring leader returns, Hachimura will handle a larger share of the Lakers’ offense as they navigate a competitive Western Conference.
Source: Lakers Nation
