Lakers’ Rui Hachimura draws ‘Japanese Michael Jordan’ comp from Chet Holmgren

Rui Hachimura got a memorable nickname from Oklahoma City Thunder star Chet Holmgren following his great performance in the Los Angeles Lakers’ series win over the Houston Rockets.

Hachimura is going through the seventh season of his career, his fourth with the Lakers. He has been in the playoffs five times as Los Angeles has gifted a lot of postseason basketball.

This campaign has seen him come through with a huge closeout game in Game 6. He delivered with 21 points to help Los Angeles eliminate Houston in six games, making five triples from downtown.

Hachimura’s growth in the playoffs earned praise from Holmgren. The two will be facing each other as the Lakers face the Thunder in the West Semifinals.

“Something about those Gonzaga guys. He’s a talented guy. He plays a little bit like Japanese Jordan sometimes when you see the turnaround and stuff,” Holmgren said.

What lies ahead for Rui Hachimura, Lakers

Rui Hachimura has played a key role in helping the Lakers throughout previous playoff runs. This time, he came through in convincing fashion as Chet Holmgren recognizes his talent as a big factor in the upcoming series against the Thunder.

Hachimura torched the Rockets with his perimeter shot throughout the six-game series in the first round. He averaged 15.8 points, four rebounds, 1.2 assists, and one steal per game. He boasted shooting splits of 54.3% from the field, including a scorching 58.6% from beyond the arc.

Los Angeles enjoyed his shooting explosion throughout the series. Houston was unable to take him out of rhythm as Hachimura helped the Lakers earn their first series win since the 2023 West Semifinals. This gives Los Angeles more time to let Austin Reaves regain more of his energy while awaiting Luka Doncic’s return to the court from injury.

The Lakers will look forward to their semifinals clash with the Thunder. Game 1 of the series will take place on May 5 at 8:30 p.m. ET.

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