Rui Hachimura has decided to walk across the hall and sign with the Los Angeles Clippers. The veteran forward agreed to a two-year, $28 million contract with the Clippers, giving Tyronn Lue another versatile two-way forward while ending Hachimura’s three-and-a-half-year run with the Lakers.
How We Got Here:
The Clippers are coming off an interesting season that saw them finally move away from their win-now mentality and shift to a future-oriented approach. They dealt away James Harden, Ivica Zubac, and Kawhi Leonard with the goal of building around their younger roster that features only two players older than 30.
Hachimura had an efficient season last year for the Lakers, averaging 11.5 points and 3.3 rebounds on 51.4% from the field and 44.3% from the three-point range. He took a major step forward in the playoffs, elevating his offensive game by knocking down three-pointers and forcing teams to respect him on the perimeter.
His Impact:
Hachimura will be able to provide some much-needed roster depth. On the offensive end of the court, he brings a tremendous combination of reliable three-point shooting, secondary scoring with high usage, and strong transition offense. That will fit perfectly with a team that already has some established players and is also looking to empower its young core. On the defensive side of the ball, he is a physical wing capable of defending multiple positions. He has the size to defend multiple frontcourt positions and the athleticism to make an impact.
When it comes to the money, this is an extremly manageable contract. They are not investing any long-term money into Hachimura. Instead they are opting to keep him for a few years and allow him to have an impact before moving on. Additionally, the $14 million per year is not a massive price tag that allows them to maintain flexibility.
The Clippers are adding another reliable contributor capable of making winning plays on both ends of the floor. He will be an ideal fit for a team that is full of young talent and looking to take a step forward in the Western Conference after an interesting 2025 season.
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