Lakers Announce Rui Hachimura News After 5 Missed Games

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Paolo Songco | Last updated Jan 8, 2026 8:53 PM ET

The Los Angeles Lakers have been without Rui Hachimura for the last five games. L.A. has missed the services of its starting power forward due to a right calf strain, with head coach JJ Redick having to insert Jake LaRavia into the starting lineup as Hachimura’s replacement.

On Wednesday, Hachimura was sent down to the South Bay Lakers of the NBA G League. The 27-year-old was a partial participant in South Bay’s practice on Wednesday, which was a significant step on his road to recovery. On Thursday, the Lakers shared a crucial update on Hachimura’s status as he looks to get back to action.

Los Angeles Lakers forward Rui Hachimura (28) © David Gonzales-Imagn Images

Hachimura has been a key piece for the Lakers this season. In 27 games played thus far, the 6-foot-8 power forward has averaged 12.7 points on 52.1% shooting, 3.8 rebounds and 1.8 three-pointers in 32.5 minutes per contest.

Hachimura has been working hard to get back to the court, and it appears that he is now closing in on his highly anticipated comeback. The Lakers announced on Thursday via the injury report that Hachimura is officially questionable to play in Friday’s game against the Milwaukee Bucks.

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— Brad Turner (@BA_Turner) January 9, 2026

This is an important development for Hachimura, who has been upgraded to questionable for the first time since he sustained his injury in late December. There is no guarantee that he will be able to return against the Bucks, but the former No. 9 overall pick is making considerable progress.

It is also worth noting that LeBron Jamesis listed as questionable. The four-time NBA MVP sat out on Wednesday against the San Antonio Spurs due to multiple injuries, and he is now in danger of missing a second straight game.

The Lakers will host Giannis Antetokounmpo and Co. on Friday, with tip-off from Crypto.com Arena scheduled for 10:30 p.m. ET.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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