Lakers News: Rui Hachimura Addresses Improved Playoff 3-Point Shooting

A shooter speaks.

One of your Los Angeles Lakers' top playoff storylines was the emergence of 6'8 forward Rui Hachimura, who was acquired at the deadline from the Washington Wizards. 

Hachimura was terrific in the postseason, averaging 12.2 points per game on an astounding 48.7% from 3-point range, ranking 7th in the entirety of the playoffs among eligible players. Hachimura also had more attempts than nearly everyone ranked above him, reflective of his incredible shooting performance, which was coveted for a Lakers team that struggled from behind the arc. 

When asked about what prompted his emergence in the postseason, as his 3-point percentage increased by a whopping 19.1%, Hachimura remarked that he "revels" in big moments. 

Rui Hachimura said a large part of his 3-point uptick — from 29.6% in the regular season to 48.7% in the playoffs — was due to him reveling in big moments. He referenced his 2021-22 season, when he shot 44.7% on 3s in the regular season, as evidence of his 3PT capabilities.

— Jovan Buha (@jovanbuha) October 2, 2023

It's no surprise that Hachimura's 3-point percentage had improved significantly, as for him, shooting above 40% had happened across an entire season previously. Taking a look at the 2021-2022 campaign, he shot 44.7% with Washington, indicative of what he's truly capable of from behind the arc.

Hachimura's 3-point shooting success will be difficult to replicate throughout the season, as if he continued shooting at a near 50% clip, he would be on a historic pace. Regardless, however, any boost from his 29.6% 3-point shooting in the regular season would be a significant boost for the Lakers offensively. 

Having a tall shooting threat that can take pressure off of your star players offensively, whilst spreading the floor is a valuable tool that every successful team possesses. For example, the Denver Nuggets, who ousted the Lakers in the Conference Finals, had Michael Porter Jr., a 6'10 wing who shot over 40% from 3-point range and kept the Nuggets offense going. 

The Lakers having a similar reliable 3-point shooter that possess defensive versatility, along with the existing offensive threats on the roster, would make for an incredibly solid offensive group, and one that can absolutely win a championship. 

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