JJ Redick: Lakers at their best when Rui Hachimura is out there

The Lakers have found something that works, and it seems to include Rui Hachimura being on the floor.

Following Friday’s win over the Nets, coach JJ Redick pointed to Hachimura’s impact as a key factor in the team’s success this season.

“We are now 42-18 when Rui plays, which is a 57-58-win pace,” Redick told reporters. “That tells you all you need to know. His ability to space the floor, his size, it’s important for our team and our rotation.”

That’s a strong endorsement. Hachimura has carved out a valuable role alongside stars like Luka Doncic, LeBron James and Austin Reaves, providing spacing, versatility and secondary scoring.

When he’s available, things tend to click. That’s been the issue at times this season.

Hachimura hasn’t always been in the lineup, something Redick acknowledged as less than ideal. But when he is, the results speak for themselves.

The Lakers are trending toward a high playoff seed in the Western Conference, and their depth has played a role in that rise.

Hachimura is part of that equation. With the postseason approaching, keeping him on the floor could be just as important as anything else.

After all, if the record is any indication, the Lakers are a different team when he plays.