Washington Wizards: 5 Best Games from Rui Hachimura’s Rookie Season

Game Score: 126-114 win over the Chicago Bulls
Game Stats: 32 Mins, 20 Points, 7-12 FG, 58.3 FG%, 0-0 3PT, 6-6 FT, 100 FT%, 4 Rebounds, 3 Assists, 2 Blocks, 2 Steals, 2 PF, 2 Turnovers, +20

This was my favorite performance from Rui Hachimura’s rookie season because he absolutely stuffed the stat sheet. Not only did he finish with 20 points, but he also had four rebounds, three assists, two blocks, and two steals. Rui Hachimura ended his rookie year with ten total games with 20+ points, which was seventh amongst all rookies.

Hachimura finished this game with a +20 net rating, which was his highest +/- rating for the entire season. Against the Bulls, Hachimura made it a point of emphasis to focus on the mid-range game. Out of the 48 games Rui played in, this was only the seventh time he didn’t attempt one three-pointer. Although he was a mid-range killer in this game (and many more), Hahcimura needs to continue to expand his range and take more three-point shots.

While the Chicago Bulls weren’t the most competitive team in the NBA this season, they do have a lot of young talent. Plus, they’re in the Southeast Division as well so the Wizards have to play them four times a year. In this particular matchup, Rui didn’t get to face off against the 2017 lottery pick Lauri Markkanen because he was out due to injury. However, there’s no doubt they’ll be battling each other at the stretch four positions for years to come. That battle will be something to look forward to.