Rui Hachimura continues his stay in L.A.
The Los Angeles Clippers believe they've found another key piece for their frontcourt after officially signing forward Rui Hachimura to a two-year, $28 million deal.
Following the announcement, Clippers President of Basketball Operations Lawrence Frank explained why the organization pursued the Japanese forward, pointing to his shooting efficiency and fit within the team's system.
"Rui is an elite three-point shooter and an efficient mid-range scorer who uses his size to exploit mismatches," Frank said. "He will strengthen our frontcourt with his one-on-one defense and ability to space the floor. Rui is also a well-liked and respected teammate who continues to grow his game. We're excited to add him."
Frank's comments reflect what Hachimura has developed into over seven NBA seasons. After entering the league as a talented mid-range scorer, the 28-year-old has steadily evolved into one of the NBA's more efficient forwards.
Rui's Impact in L.A.
Last season with the Lakers, Hachimura averaged 11.5 points and 3.3 rebounds in 68 games (41 starts). He shot 51.4% from the field while posting a career-best 44.3% from three-point range, the fifth-highest mark in the NBA last season.
His efficiency became one of the Lakers' biggest offensive weapons. Hachimura scored in double figures 42 times during the regular season and recorded seven games with at least 20 points.
Rui Hachimura (28) warms up prior to game three of the second round of the 2026 NBA Playoffs against the Oklahoma City Thunder at Crypto.com Arena. His production was even better once the playoffs began.
In 10 postseason games last season, averaging 17.5 points, 4.0 rebounds and 1.7 assists while logging nearly 39 minutes per contest.
The Clippers are hoping that version of Hachimura carries over as they continue to reshape their roster, trading Kawhi Leonard to the Toronto Raptors.
Rui Hachimura (28) is defended by Los Angeles Clippers guard Kobe Sanders (4) during the first half at Crypto.com Arena. Landing in L.A.
After being acquired by the Lakers midway through the 2022-23 season, Hachimura became a dependable rotational piece.
In 228 games with the franchise, he averaged 12.3 points and 4.3 rebounds, shooting an efficient 51.6% from the field and 41.5% from three.
Before making the jump to the NBA, Hachimura starred at Gonzaga, where he was a consensus All-American, the 2018-19 West Coast Conference Player of the Year, and a two-time First Team All-WCC selection.
Rui Hachimura (28) shoots against Los Angeles Clippers center Ivica Zubac (40) during the first half at Intuit Dome. Now, he'll begin a new chapter with the Lakers' crosstown rival after agreeing to a two-year deal.
For the Clippers, Hachimura checks several important boxes. At 6-foot-8 and 230 pounds, he brings size and physicality to the frontcourt around new addition Brandon Ingram and last season's acquisition, Darius Garland.
If Hachimura builds on the career-best shooting numbers he posted last season, the Clippers may have landed one of the more impactful frontcourt additions of the offseason.
