JJ Redick says Rui Hachimura is ‘fine’, will wear mask as a precaution

Rui Hachimura took a blow to the face in the Lakers’ Game 2 win, but will be ready for Game 3 against the Wolves

The Lakers got some good news on the injury front on Thursday. After Rui Hachimura took a shot to the face in Game 2 and momentarily left, he was able to complete the game wearing a mask.

During practice the day before Game 3 on Friday, JJ Redick stated that he would be fine and would continue to wear a mask as the playoffs continued.

Hachimura playing through discomfort in Game 2 was admirable. He wore two masks in the contest, starting with a clear one and switching to a second black mask while helping the Lakers even the postseason series by beating the Wolves 94-85.

Now that it’s been confirmed that Hachimura will be okay, Lakers fans can sigh in relief.

Hachimura’s value to this team can’t be understated. During this series, he’s playing 32 minutes, scoring 10 points and grabbing five rebounds.

He has started in all but two games he’s played this year and with L.A.’s rotation shrinking to just six players logging 10 or more minutes, his production can’t be replaced.

Luckily, the Lakers won’t have to worry about this, as he’ll be ready to go for Game 3.

It’s good to hear Redick saying Hachimura will continue to wear the mask. Earlier this season, Anthony Davis mentioned his disdain for any kind of goggles and his refusal to put them on. It sounds like Rui doesn’t have the same apprehension about a mask.

With Hachimura ready to go, the Lakers should be at full strength for Game 3 on Friday. For Game 2, the only player even on the injury report was Maxi Kleber, who is still recovering from right foot surgery.

Still, having just one player out is a great situation to be in this late into the season. The Lakers should consider themselves lucky that Hachimura is relatively fine and will be able to handle his typical playing time.

You can follow Edwin on Twitter at @ECreates88 or on Bluesky at @ecreates88.bsky.social.