The Lakers have been on fire since the Luka Doncic trade. They have won four straight games and jumped to the fourth seed in the West standings, with their latest victory coming last night against the Timberwolves. But amid their impressive run, the LA team is facing one major concern. Rui Hachimura’s health! Yes, he left yesterday’s game early in the third quarter after straining his left knee following a wide open fastbreak dunk. And even JJ Redick is uncertain about the forward’s return.

When asked about the severity of Rui’s injury, JJ said, “We are optimistic this is not a serious injury.” Turns out, Hachimura underwent medical imaging on his knee but is yet to be seen and assessed by Lakers’ doctor Kris Jones. So, the head coach did not reveal any timeline for his potential comeback. Of course, the Lakers have ruled Rui out for tonight’s Clippers’ game.

His absence is a massive blow for the team, as Rui Hachimura has been a key piece in the rotation, averaging 13.3 points and over five rebounds per game. His size and versatility have also been a huge asset on the defensive end. But here’s the concern—this isn’t the first time Rui’s health has raised red flags this season.

Just last weekend against the Nuggets, he had to exit early after appearing to hurt his back while guarding Aaron Gordon in the paint. With injuries piling up, the team is hoping this latest setback doesn’t keep him out for long.

That too was a non-contact injury, just like last night. But Rui could return in the following game. Hopefully, he will recover from the knee injury and make a comeback soon because the Lakers need him for the second half of the season and the playoffs.

JJ even touched upon Rui’s impact after last night’s game, “Concerned when any guy gets hurt, in particular one of our best players and the guy who’s been so important to everything we’ve done on both ends of the floor this year.” Moreover—this season might be the forward’s last chance to prove himself and extend his stay in LA because the Lakers are reportedly eyeing a 6’10 star, which could lead to Rui getting traded!

Rob Pelinka reportedly planning big move to make up for rescinded Mark Williams trade

Although the Lakers are looking great with LeBron and Luka leading the charge, there is still one major void that needs to be attended. The lack of an elite big man. Well, Pelinka tried to fill that gap at the deadline by making a trade for Hornets Center Mark Williams in exchange for Dalton Knecht, Cam Reddish, and some draft capital. However, the deal was rescinded soon after due to Williams failing his physical, sending the LA team back to square one.

Now, Pelinka seemingly has his eyes set on Pistons big man Jalen Duren who is under a $19.4 million contract set to expire next year. And the Lakers could make a move for him this summer, depending on how far they go this season. As per Fadeaway World’s Eddie Bitar, “If they want to maximize their title window, they must invest all available assets into acquiring Jalen Duren, a young and dominant big man who could be their long-term answer in the paint.”

Well, Duren could be the perfect piece to pair alongside Luka for the long term. He is only 21-years-old and has shown great potential in Detroit, averaging 11.1 points and over ten rebounds this year. “He has the tools to be a franchise cornerstone.” Bitar added. But acquiring him comes at a hefty price.

While the Lakers have already shown interest in acquiring Jalen, reports suggest that they might have to give up Knecht, Hachimura, and draft capital to the Pistons in exchange. With Rui facing injury woes, Pelinka could eventually pull the trigger to add a younger and potentially better player for the long run. Do you think the Lakers should trade Hachimura for Duren?