Rui Hachimura will not play in the Los Angeles Lakers’ upcoming road games due to a calf injury that has sidelined him since December 28. The forward has missed the team’s last three matchups, during which the Lakers posted a 2-1 record, including wins over the Memphis Grizzlies and a loss to the Detroit Pistons.
The Lakers have used different starting lineups in Hachimura’s absence, most recently inserting Jake LaRavia alongside Luka Doncic, Marcus Smart, LeBron James, and Deandre Ayton. Austin Reaves also remains out with a calf strain. LaRavia appears to be adjusting after struggling with his shooting in December.
Lakers head coach JJ Redick provided an update on Hachimura’s status: “He won’t play on this road trip… He’s gonna stay back and try to get some work in and hopefully he’s able to get some work in with South Bay potentially, that hasn’t been decided. But yeah, he’ll stay back. Him and AR both,” Redick said.
The Lakers are scheduled for two road games against the New Orleans Pelicans on Tuesday and the San Antonio Spurs on Wednesday. Their next home game is Friday against the Milwaukee Bucks, which could be Hachimura’s earliest possible return date. Extra time in Los Angeles for treatment may help his recovery, but being ruled out for multiple games suggests his return could take longer.
In addition to injury updates, there are ongoing discussions about potential roster changes. Team management reportedly recognizes that even at full strength, improvements are needed for playoff contention. General manager Rob Pelinka is open to trading future cap flexibility for a two-way perimeter player with size — a profile lacking under his leadership so far.