Lakers Optimistic Rui Hachimura Could Return Monday vs. Kings

Positive progress in his left calf recovery has the team cautiously awaiting final evaluations.

Overview

Head coach JJ Redick said there is a lot of optimism Hachimura will be available against Sacramento after a strong workout and regained calf strength.
Hachimura has been sidelined since Dec. 28 with a left calf strain and was downgraded from questionable to out for Friday’s 105-101 loss to the Bucks.
His status remains day-to-day, with the team monitoring how his calf responds over the next few days before making a call.
In his absence, Jake LaRavia has started as the fifth starter, prompting rotation questions once Hachimura returns to restore spacing.
Hachimura is averaging 12.7 points on 52.1% shooting and 44.5% from three this season, and Austin Reaves is still out until late January with a calf strain.