Los Angeles Lakers head coach JJ Redick has confirmed that Rui Hachimura will play with a protective mask in Game 3 against the Minnesota Timberwolves after suffering a facial injury in Game 2. Hachimura took a shot to the face during the game but showed resilience, scoring 11 points, grabbing five rebounds, and making two steals to help the Lakers secure a crucial win.
Hachimura’s facial injury required medical evaluation, but he returned to the game after a brief absence. Redick praised Hachimura’s determination, saying, “He played like a warrior tonight. In the X-ray room, he was awesome.”
Redick revealed that Hachimura is dealing with patella tendinopathy, a common knee injury. The Lakers will reassess his condition after a week.
Dorian Finney-Smith is ready to fill the gap if Hachimura misses games. Finney-Smith averaged eight points and four rebounds this season, while Hachimura averaged 13.3 points and 5.2 rebounds. Finney-Smith will have more court time and defensive responsibilities if Hachimura is out, and he’s expected to prove his worth with a $15 million contract.
The Lakers will face the Timberwolves in Game 3 tonight, with ESPN handling the national broadcast. The series is highly competitive, and the Lakers can’t afford to take any games lightly.
