Hachimura’s performance key in Lakers’ victory, injury scare averted

DENVER, Colorado — Los Angeles Lakers forward Rui Hachimura was instrumental in his team’s 108-100 victory over the Denver Nuggets on February 22, 2025, at Ball Arena. Hachimura scored 21 points on 7-of-12 shooting, securing crucial baskets as the Lakers extended their recent winning streak.

Not only did Hachimura shine offensively, but he also played stellar defense against Nuggets star Nikola Jokic. This performance raised concerns when Hachimura appeared to injure himself early in the fourth quarter while battling Aaron Gordon in the post. Following the incident, Hachimura was seen holding his side and back as he left for the locker room.

Fortunately for the Lakers, Hachimura returned to the game just minutes later. He explained the situation postgame, stating, “I actually don’t know what happened. I had a crazy pain. I didn’t get hit or anything, but I’m fine now. Stretched a little bit and they just warmed it up and I was fine, got back in the game. But I’m fine.”

Hachimura has been enjoying a breakout season with the Lakers. Coaches and analysts have noted his increased contributions and importance to the team’s overall success. After overcoming various injuries, the Lakers have found their rhythm, partly due to Hachimura’s consistent performance.

“It was just not giving him any easy touches,” Hachimura said about defending Jokic. “He’s of course the main guy for them and if you distract him, it’s gonna be hard for them to operate their offense. So our defensive plan was to just trap him from half court and then once he got to half court, I gotta be on him literally the whole time.”

The victory allowed the Lakers to further solidify their position as contenders for the postseason. Hachimura, who has become a vital player in Head Coach JJ Redick’s starting lineup, demonstrated why he is regarded as one of the unsung heroes of this season.

Daniel Starkand, a graduate of Chapman University, serves as the managing editor and senior writer for LakersNation.com. He also covers the Dodgers for DodgerBlue.com.