Just about everyone agrees that the Los Angeles Lakers acquired a gem in forward Rui Hachimura while giving up little to get him, surrendering Kendrick Nunn and three second-round draft picks.
The Japan native made a nice debut as a Laker on Wednesday night, scoring 12 points in about 22 minutes on 4-of-7 shooting. He flashed his ability to score one-on-one from the midrange area, ran the floor well, scored on the fast break and got to the free-throw line for six attempts.
He has the type of offensive skill set that may remind some people of Los Angeles Clippers star Kawhi Leonard. Obviously, Hachimura doesn’t have those skills at the same level as Leonard, but he can do many of the same things.
Apparently, that is what Lakers assistant coach Phil Handy thinks of his team’s new addition.
“Reminds me of this guy I coached in Toronto”
Phil Handy on Rui Hachimura pic.twitter.com/d5m4JN7qa8
— pickuphoop (@pickuphoop) January 26, 2023
Handy is regarded as perhaps the best player development coach in the NBA, and he was seen working with Hachimura on his game on Tuesday. Specifically, the forward was putting in work on his midrange post-up game and 3-point shot from the corner.
Rui Hachimura working out with Phil Handy and the Lakers for the first time since the trade 🔥
(via @TomerAzarly) pic.twitter.com/IuK2Vmrznh
— ClutchPoints (@ClutchPointsApp) January 25, 2023
Hachimura could have plenty of untapped potential, especially when it comes to his 3-point shooting and defense. He may never become a true star, but he will provide plenty of help for a Lakers team that has been starving for productive wings and forwards.
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