Overview
- Hachimura practiced fully Sunday and was removed from the injury report, with both he and coach JJ Redick indicating he is trending toward playing Monday in Sacramento pending final trainer clearance.
- Redick said Hachimura will open on a minutes restriction and likely come off the bench, mirroring the team’s conservative approach with recent calf recoveries.
- The forward missed six games with right calf soreness/strain and worked with the South Bay Lakers during rehab, noting a multi-year history that warrants careful management.
- Jake LaRavia, who has started during Hachimura’s absence, is expected to keep the starting spot for continuity as the Lakers balance shooting needs with defensive toughness.
- Before the injury Hachimura averaged about 12.7 points on strong efficiency, and his return is expected to bolster spacing and depth for a bench unit that has struggled to score.