Going into the 2026 NBA playoffs, the Los Angeles Lakers looked promising. But their postseason success didn’t come from the usual LeBron James magic. Instead, power forward Rui Hachimura stepped up as the team’s unsung hero.

Throughout the 2025-2026 regular season, Hachimura played like a reliable role player. He averaged 11.5 points, 3.3 rebounds, and 0.8 assists per game while shooting 51.4% from the field. His role was mostly limited to the bench.

“In the regular season, he was just on the bench,” said Matthew W., a local sixth-grade student and avid basketball follower.

Once the playoffs began, Hachimura flipped a switch. His performance surged as he helped carry an inconsistent Lakers team through the early rounds. This efficient play was just what the Lakers needed.

In the postseason, Hachimura’s numbers jumped across the board. He averaged 17.5 points, 3.8 rebounds, and 0.8 assists per game. His 3-point shooting improved dramatically, rising from 44.3% in the regular season to 56.9% in the playoffs.

This breakout was driven by a much more aggressive and physical style of play.

“He was way more physical in the playoffs,” observed Chandler B., a sixth-grade Laker fanatic who closely monitored the team’s postseason rotations.

The Lakers needed that extra edge. With star Luka Doncic sidelined by injury with a hamstring strain, Hachimura became a key offensive weapon alongside James and Austin Reaves. While Reaves struggled with turnovers, Hachimura brought stability, averaging fewer than one turnover per game. His versatile defense also helped neutralize bigger frontcourt players.

His strong playstyle caught the attention of young fans.

“During the playoffs, he was top 10 on the [Lakers],” Matthew W. added.