Los Angeles Lakers forward Rui Hachimura said Friday he will take a renewed focus on offensive rebounding and three-point shooting into the new NBA season tipping off next week.
The Japanese Olympic men’s basketball star expressed a positive outlook for the upcoming season despite sitting out the Lakers’ preseason finale, a 132-74 loss to the Golden State Warriors, as a precaution for a tight calf muscle.
Rui Hachimura of the Los Angeles Lakers warms up before an NBA preseason game against the Golden State Warriors at Chase Center in San Francisco on Oct. 18, 2024. (Getty/Kyodo)
Hachimura made an impact on both ends of the floor in four preseason games for the Lakers, averaging 12.8 points and seven rebounds, up from last season’s average of 4.3.
“I’ve been conscious of offensive rebounds and taking more three-pointers. I think I did well in those areas,” he said.
The Lakers will host the Minnesota Timberwolves on Tuesday, when the 2024-25 NBA season opens with two games.
“We’re really aiming to win the championship this year,” Hachimura said. “It’s very important that we get off to a good start.”
Hachimura’s Akatsuki Japan teammate Yuki Kawamura made his final preseason appearance for the Memphis Grizzlies, dishing two assists while shooting 0-for-1 and committing two turnovers in eight minutes of a 114-109 loss to the visiting Miami Heat.
The point guard signed an Exhibit 10 training camp contract and is bidding for an upgrade to a two-way deal that would allow him to shuttle between Memphis and its developmental G-League affiliate.
