During the Los Angeles Lakers’ win over the Washington Wizards, Rui Hachimura had an unexpected reaction when he glanced toward the opposing bench and spotted a very familiar face, Anthony Davis.
“It was funny because during the timeout, I was looking at the bench and I saw AD and I was shocked,” Hachimura said speaking to Lakers Nation. “I was like wait, I totally forgot about [Davis’ trade to Washington]. I went to say hi to him, and yeah he just got to DC. I was there for three years, so I know the people and all that. Of course, I think it’s a good situation for him. I hope the best for him. I was happy to see him.”
The reaction says a lot about how surreal midseason movement can feel, especially when it involves a player as impactful as Davis. After being dealt from the Dallas Mavericks to the Wizards at the deadline, Davis found himself on the sidelines against a franchise where he built strong relationships and won a championship.
Despite the jersey change, the connection between Davis and the Lakers remains clear. Before the game, he even attempted to join in on the team’s pregame ritual, a lighthearted moment that reflected the mutual respect still shared between both sides.
Teammates quickly caught up with him throughout the night, reinforcing the idea that, while business decisions may shift rosters, personal bonds don’t disappear as easily.
Hachimura’s perspective added another layer to the story. Having started his own career in Washington, he understands the transition Davis is now navigating. His honest reaction, forgetting the move entirely, highlighted just how recent and unexpected the trade still feels around the league.
Davis has yet to make his debut for the Wizards, but moments like this show he hasn’t been forgotten in Los Angeles, even if, for a split second, one of his former teammates needed a reminder.
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