The Washington Wizards have strung together an excellent start to the 2021-22 NBA season, and they're doing it all without one key cog. Third-year forward Rui Hachimura has yet to feature for the Wizards this season, as he's been away from the team for personal reasons. Little was known as to why Hachimura was absent, but it seems as if the former Gonzaga starlet is inching towards a return.
Per NBC's Chase Hughes, Hachimura was seen at the Wizards' shootaround on Saturday. Hughes reported it was the first time Hachimura had been seen by the Wizards' media team this season.
Rui Hachimura is in the building for Wizards shootaround. First time he has been seen by media this season. pic.twitter.com/ErpLVmrDkC
— Chase Hughes (@ChaseHughesNBCS) November 20, 2021
Hachimura featured in 57 games for Washington last season, but prior to the 2021-22 season, reports emerged that the 23-year-old had cut off all communications from the franchise. He reportedly returned to practice and met with team leaders earlier this month, but now it seems the Japan native is getting closer to returning to the hardwood.
He's missed the team's first 15 games, during which Washington has logged a 10-5 record. New acquisitions Spencer Dinwiddie, Kyle Kuzma, and Montrezl Harrell have helped fill the role vacated by Hachimura, as well as Russell Westbrook, who was traded to the Los Angeles Lakers this offseason.
Across 105 career games, Hachimura has posted averages of 13.7 points, 5.8 rebounds, and 1.6 assists. He's made 0.7 threes per game, shooting the long ball at a 31.3% clip.
The former first-round pick will have to fight hard to re-earn his spot in Washington's rotation, especially considering how well the team has played of late. There has yet to be any official statement regarding Hachimura's return and as of now the forward is considered out indefinitely by the franchise.
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