Japanese forward Rui Hachimura has officially begun a new chapter in his NBA career after agreeing to a two-year, $28 million contract with the Los Angeles Clippers. The move ends his successful stint with the Los Angeles Lakers and gives the Clippers another versatile two-way forward alongside their veteran core. According to multiple reports, Hachimura prioritized staying in Los Angeles, making the Clippers his preferred destination during free agency.
The signing has quickly become one of the biggest NBA free agency stories, with fans eager to see how Hachimura fits into the Clippers’ rotation and playoff ambitions.
Rui Hachimura to the Clippers
The Clippers secured Hachimura using their mid-level exception after the Lakers declined to pursue a sign-and-trade agreement. Reports indicate both sides had reached an early understanding before free agency officially settled, allowing the deal to move forward once it became clear the Lakers would not retain him.
For the Clippers, Hachimura adds:
- Reliable three-point shooting
- Strong transition scoring
- Defensive versatility
- Playoff experience
- Size and athleticism at forward
His arrival strengthens one of the Western Conference’s deepest frontcourts.
Rui Hachimura Stats
Hachimura has steadily developed into one of the NBA’s most dependable role players since entering the league in 2019.
Career NBA Stats
- Points: 12.6 PPG
- Rebounds: 4.6 RPG
- Assists: 1.2 APG
- Field Goal Percentage: 49.9%
- Three-Point Percentage: 39.4%
2025-26 Regular Season
During his final season with the Lakers, Hachimura averaged approximately:
- 11.5 points
- 3.3 rebounds
- 44.3% from three-point range
His efficient perimeter shooting made him one of the league’s more valuable complementary forwards.
Rui Hachimura Contract
Hachimura’s latest contract is reportedly worth:
- Team: Los Angeles Clippers
- Length: 2 years
- Value: $28 million
- Average Salary: $14 million annually
The agreement gives both player and team flexibility while providing the Clippers with an experienced forward entering his prime years.
Rui Hachimura Trade History
Hachimura has now represented three NBA franchises.
Washington Wizards (2019–2023)
- Selected 9th overall in the 2019 NBA Draft.
- Named to the NBA All-Rookie Second Team.
- Developed into one of Washington’s core young players.
Los Angeles Lakers (2023–2026)
The Lakers acquired Hachimura in a trade during the 2022-23 season. He became an important rotation player, helping the team reach multiple playoff appearances while improving his outside shooting.
Los Angeles Clippers (2026–Present)
Rather than via trade, Hachimura joined the Clippers through free agency after his Lakers contract expired.
Rui Hachimura Team
Current team:
Los Angeles Clippers
Position:
- Power Forward
- Small Forward
Known for his versatility, Hachimura can defend multiple positions while providing efficient scoring both inside and beyond the arc.
Rui Hachimura Rumors
Throughout the 2026 offseason, Hachimura was linked with several franchises, including the San Antonio Spurs, Brooklyn Nets, and Dallas Mavericks. However, reports consistently suggested that remaining in Los Angeles was his preferred outcome. Once it became clear the Lakers would not retain him, the Clippers finalized the deal.
Some speculation also centered on a possible sign-and-trade with the Lakers, but negotiations never materialized.
What Rui Hachimura Brings to the Clippers
The Clippers are adding a player who excels at:
- Spot-up three-point shooting
- Mid-range scoring
- Transition offense
- Defensive flexibility
- Playoff composure
At just 28 years old, Hachimura is entering the prime of his career and should provide valuable depth alongside the Clippers’ veteran stars.
Final Thoughts
Rui Hachimura’s move to the Los Angeles Clippers is one of the standout stories of the 2026 NBA offseason. After establishing himself with both the Washington Wizards and Los Angeles Lakers, the Japanese international now has an opportunity to play a significant role for a Clippers team aiming to contend in the Western Conference.
With an efficient scoring profile, improving three-point shooting, and proven playoff experience, Hachimura could prove to be one of the most impactful free-agent signings of the summer.
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