Getting tapped on the back of the head isn’t something players usually forget, especially in the tension of a playoff game. But for Rui Hachimura, that memory seems to have faded into the background.
When questioned about the incident, Hachimura’s initial reaction was a puzzled, “When? When did that happen?” This was in reference to Luka Doncic’s lighthearted jab at him as the final seconds ticked down, marking the Lakers’ win against the Rockets at Crypto.com Arena over the weekend.
“Hmm… I don’t recall,” Hachimura commented sheepishly. “Luka does stuff like that all the time. I think I’m simply used to it. It’s probably just background noise for me.”
Doncic, who’s dealing with a left hamstring issue, may be on the sidelines along with teammate Austin Reeves, who is also nursing an injury.
Despite being injured, both players are still contributing to the team’s strategies and morale. Jackson Hayes mentioned, “Even from the bench, they can offer insights we might miss when we’re actually in the game. It helps to have them around.”
Since his injury, Reeves has stuck with the team, cheering from the sidelines. Doncic made his way back to Southern California after receiving specialized treatment in Europe, hoping to hasten his recovery. He showed up about 40 minutes before the game on Saturday and even participated in practice on Monday.
The pair haven’t addressed the media since getting hurt. Coach JJ Reddick noted, “It was great seeing Doncic back in practice; he contributed on both ends. Having the group together lately has been beneficial.”
During practice, Doncic engaged in a playful game of “rock-paper-scissors” with Reeves, who recently sank some free throws alongside teammates. Reeves emerged victorious.
As for Doncic, Hayes has taken to calling him his “Slovenian brother” now that he holds a Slovenian passport, allowing him to join Doncic on the national team.
“People might not realize how much of an impact Luka has, both on and off the court,” Hachimura remarked. “He’s a fun person to be around, and we’ve really missed him.”
Hachimura added, “Luka has this playful side, and he often just messes with everyone, which is totally normal for him.”
The pressing question remains: when will Doncic return to play? Reddick emphasized the aim to prolong their season so both he and Reeves can join in the playoffs. “We’ll do our best to stretch this season out,” he said. “Their job is to recover, and we’re trying to make it happen. But until they’re back, the team is glad to have their presence around.”
