In the span of just a few months, Rui Hachimura became a huge part of the Los Angeles Lakers.
But even though things got off to a great start, Hachimura is hoping for a better season with his Lakers.
The team posted images on social media of Hachimura practicing and he was looking very focused.
“Work doesn’t stop,” the tweet’s caption read.
Work doesn't stop. pic.twitter.com/cm94TVf73q
— Los Angeles Lakers (@Lakers) September 19, 2023
Hachimura definitely did work hard during his 33 games with the Lakers in 2022-23.
He averaged 9.6 points and 4.7 rebounds during that time.
But he really took off during the team’s surprisingly strong postseason run.
He then put up 12.2 points and 3.6 rebounds with a strong 55.7% field goal percentage and a very impressive 48.7% from beyond the three-point line.
Hachimura was considered a breakout by the team’s loyal fanbase.
They loved his energy and his dogged drive during each and every game.
But now Hachimura has to continue to prove that he’s the real deal.
With a full season ahead of him, Hachimura will try to meet the lofty expectations that surround him.
His 33-game stint with the Lakers last season was enough for the team’s front office to offer him a new deal.
Hachimura will now be with the Lakers for the next few years.
There is a young group of Lakers players who are seen as the future of the team.
Hachimura, along with others like Austin Reaves and Jarred Vanderbilt, are giving fans something to be excited about.
But will they remain excited during the new season?
They will if Hachimura’s performances in 2023-24 look anything like his in 2022-23.
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