Rui Hachimura played a key role for the Los Angeles Lakers in their recent game against the Toronto Raptors. In a close contest, Hachimura hit a three-point shot at the buzzer, securing a 123-120 win for the Lakers and starting their three-game road trip with a victory.
Hachimura had not scored in the previous game and had only taken one shot. After that match, he mentioned the need for better ball movement within the team. The following game saw an improvement in this area, which led to his crucial moment.
Reflecting on his first career buzzer-beater, Hachimura said through NBA on X: “I think I’ve never had a buzzer-beater like that, so it was like one of those plays that every basketball player dreams of. It was a great feeling.”
The decisive play involved Austin Reaves managing a double-team and passing to LeBron James, who then found Hachimura open in the corner. According to Hachimura, James predicted how the play would unfold. He stated via Spectrum SportsNet: “I’ve never hit a game-winner. But Bron told me right before it, he said I got you. He said it’s gonna come to you. That was it.”
James’ decision-making highlighted his awareness and trust in teammates during critical moments. He anticipated that Reaves would be pressured and that passing would leave Hachimura open for the shot.
This season, Hachimura is making 46.8% of his three-point attempts. If he maintains this rate, it will mark his third straight year shooting above 40% from beyond the arc.
LeBron James also made headlines by prioritizing team success over personal milestones during this game. Although taking the final shot himself could have extended his streak of consecutive games scoring in double digits, James chose to set up Hachimura for the winning basket instead.
