Rui Hachimura

Possibilities proved endless, regarding where Opening Night’s first exclamatory statement would arrive on a floor featuring 10 different, proven bucket collectors. As October 22, 2024’s happenings would confirm just two minutes in, such honors would belong to Rui Hachimura. Already introduced to the new season’s scoring column through a buttery-smooth triple just one possession before, Hachimura seeks out a different floor level, using first Anthony Edwards’ momentum against him on a decisive drive. Eventually winning that race to the rim with “only” four-time Defensive Player of the Year Rudy Gobert now obstructing his path, Hachimura — needing to blend both speed and power simultaneously — flushes in a one-handed jam, securing his first poster of 2024-25's campaign. The Los Angeles Lakers followed Hachimura’s urgency, holding off the Minnesota Timberwolves for a season-opening home victory, ultimately kickstarting a 3-0 start. Hachimura, filling in every gap needed, turned in 18 points (on an efficient 7-of-14), alongside five rebounds, one assist, two steals, one block, and a trifecta.