Why is Rui Hachimura wearing a mask during Suns-Lakers? Exploring possible reasons

Rui Hachimura was caught wearing a mask before the LA Lakers' NBA In-Season Tournament quarterfinals matchup against the Phoenix Suns. Hachimura has also been using a mask during practice in the lead-up to Tuesday's game. So, why is Rui Hachimura wearing a mask? Here's a look at the possible reasons.

Hachimura has missed the Lakers' past five games due to a nasal fracture suffered on Nov. 22 against the Dallas Mavericks. He underwent a minor surgery two days after the injury occurred and was ruled out for at least a week.

The Lakers have been cautious of Hachimura, as they gave him extra rest on Saturday against the Houston Rockets. He was listed as available but did not play a minute.

Due to the facial injury, Hachimura is required to wear a mask to prevent further injuries. It will also help him play despite still being in recovery from the surgery. He just needs to avoid getting hit in the face, and all will be good.

The Lakers have only recently begun being healthy, so it's not surprising that they are being careful.

Rui Hachimura has only played 12 games this season after missing a chunk of November due to a concussion. Hachimura is averaging 11.8 points, 3.8 rebounds and 1.0 assists.

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Rui Hachimura explains how he broke his nose

Rui Hachimura of the LA Lakers

Rui Hachimura told reporters on Monday how he broke his nose against the Dallas Mavericks. Hachimura shared that it happened in the first quarter when a Mavs player ran into his face. He thought that it was a regular blow, but LA Lakers trainers noticed that it was broken.

The trainers tried to put his nose back into place, but they couldn't. He underwent an X-ray to check the injury, and it was ruled that he needed to undergo minor surgery:

"It was in the first quarter against Dallas," Hachimura said. "I went to drive and went to the basket, and I got blocked, and I fell, and I think one of the players kind of ran into me and hit my nose. I thought it was just a regular blow to my face or whatever, but the trainer found out that my nose kind of moved to the side. They tried to fix it, but it didn't fix.

"They said I can play with a mask on, so we had a guy that makes all of the NBA guys' masks. He made a mask for me. So I think I'm gonna play in the game with it," he added.

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