All the Los Angeles Lakers stars were poorly performed with their first playoff loss against the Minnesota Timber Wolves, but JJ Redick nominated one player to step up.
The La Lakers season ended with disappointment, with both people like Lebron James and Luka Doncic struggling with a five-game series defeat to The Timberwolves.
The lack of centers was felt sharply by LA, and the wolves dominated the board all series. LeBron had a hard time scoring in the fourth quarter, but Luka mercilessly hunted in defense.
Austin Reeves’ performance saw fans compare him to Dangelo Russell, and Jackson Hayes was essentially played from the floor. Brian Windhorst denounced JJ Reddick on the basis of Reggie Miller’s interaction prior to Game 5. The Lakers players don’t seem to be immune to criticism.
Sonomura averaged 14.8 points and 7.2 rebounds in 36.9 minutes in five games, locking in to the defensive side in an attempt to protect players like Naz Reed and Rudy Gobert.
Louis Hachimura himself highlighted what the Lakers lacked after the loss in match five, but his head coach was nothing more than to let him shine.
“I thought Louis had an outstanding season. He was very important to what we could do this year. He was an important cog on both sides of the ball,” Reddick said according to Mike Trudel.
“The game he missed was clear how valuable he was to the coaching staff. I especially thought he played in the playoffs in the last two games and I’m excited to see him grow.
“I think some of it is paint decisions. Some of it is working on his handle and his closeout. But for what we expect from them, for everyone we want from them and starring in their roles, he’s at the top of the list.
“It embraces it and stars in the role all year round.”
It was a high rating for Rui, and he proved that he was a reliable scoring option and could become a lockdown defender at his biggest stage.
The LA Lakers will make major roster changes in the upcoming offseason. GM Rob Pelinka acknowledged a serious roster issue after the playoff exit. In other words, major changes are imminent.
The 26-year-old has scored more than 41% from the regular-season three-point range. He continued that trend in the playoffs, making Rui’s skill set a rather coveted NBA asset.
Tamura earned $18 million between 2025 and 26, making his salary extremely easy to trade. In potential deals for superstars like Giannis Antetokounmpo, the ex-wizard is certainly included.
After stepping up this season, LA may not want to trade him, but Rui could undoubtedly reach the trade bloc, as immediate results are needed in the new Luka era.