Depressing Lakers Offseason Just Got Worse With Latest Injury News

Lakers fans are already frustrated with their team's lack of activity this offseason. Despite the front office's attempts to improve the roster for next season, the Los Angeles Lakers have failed to make any additions. It increasingly looks like they will bring the same team back for another season, significantly lowering their chances at contention.

The disappointing Lakers summer just got worse with the latest news from the Paris Olympics. The team's starting forward Rui Hachimura just left his national team Japan with a left calf injury. Following Japan's loss to France on Tuesday, Hachimura received an MRI, confirming an injury to his gastrocnemius muscle, according to ESPN.

"As my injury required early treatment, I was unfortunately unable to accompany the team in accordance with NBA/FIBA rules. I would like to thank all the spectators who supported me at the venue, basketball fans around the world, and all the fans in Japan."

- Rui Hachimura

Hachimura didn't appear in Japan's final game against Brazil on Friday. They ended up losing 102-84 and getting eliminated from the Olympics.

The details of Hachimura's injury and how much time he will miss weren't disclosed.

The 6'8 forward played in 68 games for the Lakers last season, starting in 39. He averaged 13.6 points, 4.3 rebounds, and 1.2 assists per game on 53.7% shooting from the field and 42.2% from three.

The Lakers will reconvene in September for training camp before playing three preseason games in October. The 2024-25 season kicks off on October 22nd.

With the start of the season over two and a half months away, Hachimura will likely be back healthy and available with the team. Even if the 26-year-old forward is back in action quickly, it's undeniable that the Lakers are continuing to have a frustrating summer.

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