Lakers lose Rui Hachimura, who signs two-year deal with the Clippers Rui Hachimura, a key player for the Los Angeles Lakers, has signed a two-year, $28-million contract with the Los Angeles Clippers, marking the end of his tenure with the Lakers. The deal was confirmed by sources familiar with the situation but not authorized to speak publicly. Hachimura, 28, joined the Lakers in January 2023 through a trade with the Washington Wizards and became an integral part of the team’s roster, earning praise from teammates and contributing significantly during the playoffs. During his time with the Lakers, Hachimura showcased his shooting prowess, particularly in the postseason. In 10 playoff games, he averaged 17.5 points per game, the third-highest scoring output on the team. His ability to consistently make three-pointers—shooting 56.9% from beyond the arc—ranked him fifth among all NBA players in that category during the playoffs. His efficiency was a critical factor in the Lakers’ offensive strategy, as he provided spacing that allowed stars like Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves to operate more effectively. Hachimura’s performance extended beyond the playoffs. Over 68 games in the 2023-24 season, he averaged 11.5 points while shooting 51.4% from the field and 44.3% from three-point range. He started 41 of those games, including all 10 playoff contests, where he delivered a standout performance against the Oklahoma City Thunder. In a 43-minute outing, he scored 25 points on 9-of-15 shooting from the field and 4-of-8 from three-point range, setting a playoff-high for the Lakers. The Clippers’ decision to acquire Hachimura was influenced by his shooting accuracy and athleticism, according to sources close to the team.#los_angeles_lakers #los_angeles_clippers #oklahoma_city_thunder #washington_wizards #rui_hachimura
Rui Hachimura Signs 2-Year, $28M Deal With LA Clippers Free agent forward Rui Hachimura has agreed to a two-year, $28 million contract with the Los Angeles Clippers, sources confirmed to ESPN. The deal was finalized early in the 2026 free agency period, with both parties prioritizing a long-term commitment to the team. Hachimura, 28, had previously expressed a strong desire to remain in Los Angeles, and the Clippers’ decision to move forward without pursuing a sign-and-trade with the Lakers solidified his return to the franchise. Hachimura and his agent, Darren Matsubara of THE•TEAM, reached an agreement with the Clippers early in free agency. The sides waited for the Lakers to complete their offseason business before pursuing a sign-and-trade, but the Lakers did not cooperate on a deal. Instead, the Clippers and Hachimura proceeded to finalize the contract, ensuring he would stay in his preferred location of Los Angeles. Hachimura declined offers from the Golden State Warriors, Minnesota Timberwolves, Brooklyn Nets, and San Antonio Spurs because he wanted to remain with the Clippers. The Lakers and Clippers had discussed a potential sign-and-trade for Hachimura, but the Clippers offered minimal cash as compensation. The Lakers had expected draft capital in return, which they deemed insufficient. This lack of financial incentive led the Lakers to abandon the plan, allowing the Clippers to move forward with their own offer. Hachimura’s decision to stay with the Clippers was also influenced by the team’s willingness to provide a guaranteed contract. Hachimura’s performance during the 2026 regular season and playoffs underscored his value to the Clippers. He averaged 11.5 points per game on 51.4% shooting from the field and 44.3% from beyond the arc during the regular season.#los_angeles #los_angeles_clippers #rui_hachimura #darren_matsubara #the_team
Professional Basketball Player Rui Hachimura Hosts Second Annual BLACK SAMURAI SUMMIT 2026 Showcase to Inspire the Next Generation of Athletes AXS Japan, a leader in advanced ticketing and live event technology, has announced its role as the official ticketing partner for the second annual BLACK SAMURAI SUMMIT 2026. The event, hosted by professional basketball player Rui Hachimura, will take place from August 6 to 8, 2026. The BLACK SAMURAI Showcase concludes a training camp designed to elevate Japanese basketball on the global stage while inspiring the next generation of players and fans across the country. The training camp, which precedes the showcase, aims to develop young talent and foster a deeper connection between athletes and fans. Hachimura, a prominent figure in Japanese basketball, has emphasized the importance of creating opportunities for aspiring players to learn and grow. The event will feature a mix of training sessions, mentorship programs, and public showcases, providing a platform for both seasoned athletes and emerging talents to engage with the community. Hachimura’s vision for the BLACK SAMURAI SUMMIT 2026 extends beyond sports. He has stated that the event is a celebration of perseverance, teamwork, and the pursuit of excellence. “This summit is not just about basketball; it’s about inspiring the next generation to dream big and work hard,” he said. The event will include interactive workshops, panel discussions with industry experts, and opportunities for fans to connect directly with athletes. AXS Japan’s involvement underscores the event’s commitment to innovation and accessibility. The ticketing partnership will ensure that the showcase is open to a wide audience, with options for both in-person attendance and virtual participation.#japan #rui_hachimura #basketball #axs_japan #black_samurai_summit_2026
Rui Hachimura Announces Second Black Samurai Summit in Japan This August Rui Hachimura, the Los Angeles Lakers forward, has confirmed the second annual BLACK SAMURAI SUMMIT 2026 will take place in Nagoya, Japan, from August 6 to 8, 2026. The event, hosted at the IG Arena, will feature basketball training sessions for 10,000 fans and a championship game involving 20 U18 athletes. Ticket sales for the public showcase game began on April 17 through AXS Japan, with premium box seating and dCard cardholder access available first. The summit builds on the success of its 2025 debut, aiming to cultivate elite athletes through a combination of physical training, mental conditioning, and exposure to high-pressure environments. Hachimura’s initiative is rooted in his belief that Japanese basketball players possess the physical talent to compete globally but lack the mental resilience required to succeed at the highest levels. Drawing from his experiences at Gonzaga University and in the NBA, he has designed the summit to instill five core mental principles: court ego, embracing pressure, professional independence, self-belief, and self-understanding. These frameworks are intended to challenge young athletes to think critically, adapt to adversity, and maintain confidence in their abilities. The summit’s structure emphasizes immersive training, with participants competing in front of large crowds to simulate the intensity of professional basketball. The event’s final day will feature an NCAA-style championship game, where selected U18 athletes will face off in a high-stakes competition. This format is designed to test players’ ability to perform under pressure, mirroring the challenges of elite competition.#rui_hachimura #softbank #ig_arena #black_samurai_summit #nagoya_japan
Professional Basketball Player Rui Hachimura Hosts Second Annual BLACK SAMURAI SUMMIT 2026 Showcase to Inspire the Next Generation of Athletes Professional basketball player Rui Hachimura is set to host the second annual BLACK SAMURAI SUMMIT 2026, a special event designed to inspire the next generation of athletes in Japan. The summit, scheduled to take place from August 6 to 8, 2026, at the IG Arena in Nagoya, will feature a training camp aimed at elevating Japanese basketball on the global stage. AXS Japan has been named the official ticketing partner for the event, marking a significant collaboration between the ticketing company and Hachimura’s initiative. BLACK SAMURAI is a groundbreaking platform that bridges Hachimura’s experience as a top-tier international basketball player with the aspirations of young athletes in Japan. The event emphasizes direct fan engagement and mentorship, with Hachimura sharing insights into elite skills, physical preparation, and the disciplined mindset required to compete at the highest level. Building on the success of the 2025 summit, the 2026 edition will offer immersive coaching experiences for young players while serving as a major sports and entertainment platform to promote ambition across Japan and strengthen the nation’s presence in global basketball. Hachimura expressed gratitude for AXS Japan’s partnership, highlighting the importance of creating a seamless and trusted event experience for participants and fans alike. He emphasized his long-term vision for BLACK SAMURAI, aiming to elevate the initiative globally and share it with a wider audience. AXS Japan’s Vice President, Akio Masamoto, praised the event as a symbol of ambition and national pride, underscoring AXS’s commitment to innovation and fan engagement.#rui_hachimura #black_samurai_summit_2026 #ig_arena #axs_japan #akio_masamoto
Rui Hachimura Set to Start Against Dallas as Lakers Address Injuries Rui Hachimura will make his first start of the season in Sunday’s matchup against the Dallas Mavericks, according to a report from The Athletic’s Law Murray. The decision comes as the Los Angeles Lakers face a challenging lineup without key players Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves, both sidelined due to injuries. Doncic, the Mavericks’ star forward, is dealing with a hamstring injury, while Reaves, a crucial contributor for the Lakers, is out with an oblique issue. Hachimura’s inclusion in the starting five marks a strategic adjustment for the Lakers, who aim to maximize their offensive potential in the absence of their injured stars. The 28-year-old forward, who has been a reliable rotation player throughout the season, has demonstrated his value with consistent performances. This season, Hachimura has started 36 games, averaging 12.9 points, 3.7 rebounds, 0.9 assists, 0.2 blocks, and 0.6 steals per contest. His shooting efficiency has been a standout aspect of his game, with a 45.3% clip from beyond the arc across 31.9 minutes per game. These numbers highlight his ability to contribute both offensively and defensively, making him a key asset for the Lakers in their pursuit of a strong finish to the regular season. The matchup against Dallas is particularly significant for the Lakers, as the Mavericks are a formidable opponent in the Western Conference. With Doncic’s absence, the Mavericks may rely more heavily on their supporting cast, but their overall depth and experience could still pose a challenge. For the Lakers, Hachimura’s start represents an opportunity to test his ability to step into a larger role and provide a spark in critical moments.#luka_doncic #los_angeles_lakers #dallas_mavericks #austin_reaves #rui_hachimura
Lakers Face Growing Concerns Over Rui Hachimura's Role as Star Players Sit Out The Los Angeles Lakers are grappling with a mounting challenge as their roster of star players, including Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves, are sidelined for extended periods. This has placed immense pressure on the supporting cast, particularly as LeBron James, now 41, is unlikely to replicate his peak performance in the playoffs. The Lakers’ reliance on their top stars has created a precarious situation, with the team’s depth struggling to compensate for the absence of key contributors. Rui Hachimura, a forward acquired from the Washington Wizards, has emerged as a focal point of this dilemma. While his offensive contributions have been notable, his overall impact remains inconsistent. In Sunday’s 134-128 loss to the Dallas Mavericks, Hachimura delivered a standout performance, scoring 21 points and hitting three three-pointers. However, his effectiveness is heavily dependent on his shooting accuracy. When his shots are off, he offers little else to the team. His lack of defensive presence, rebounding ability, and playmaking skills exacerbate the Lakers’ struggles, especially with two of their three primary stars unavailable. The issue became starkly evident during Thursday’s matchup against the Oklahoma City Thunder. Despite the Lakers’ overall poor performance, Hachimura’s struggles were particularly glaring. He shot 2-for-9 from the field, scored just four points, and finished with a team-worst minus-39 rating, highlighting his inability to contribute meaningfully when his shot isn’t falling. This inconsistency has become a critical weakness for a team already missing key players. The Lakers’ success in March was largely built around Luka Doncic’s ability to orchestrate the offense and create opportunities for his teammates.#lakers #lebron_james #luka_doncic #austin_reaves #rui_hachimura
Maxi Kleber Available for Game After Injury Upgrade Maxi Kleber has been upgraded to available for tonight’s game against the Detroit Pistons following a lumbar back strain. The update comes as the team prepares for the matchup, with Kleber’s status now listed as clear to play. In contrast, Rui Hachimura and Marcus Smart have been downgraded to out for the game. Hachimura is dealing with right calf soreness, while Smart is sidelined due to right ankle soreness. The team’s medical staff has determined that both players are not fit to participate in the contest. The updates were provided by Trevor Lane, who reported the changes in the latest injury report. The information highlights the team’s current roster challenges as they navigate the upcoming schedule. With key players sidelined, the team will need to adjust its strategy and depth for the game against Detroit. The decisions to upgrade and downgrade players reflect the ongoing management of injuries within the squad. While Kleber’s availability offers a potential boost to the team’s offensive options, the absence of Hachimura and Smart may impact both scoring and defensive versatility. The team’s coaching staff will likely focus on maximizing the strengths of the remaining players to compensate for the losses. This development underscores the importance of player health in maintaining competitive performance. As the season progresses, managing injuries will remain a critical factor in the team’s ability to secure victories. The game against Detroit will serve as a test of how effectively the team can adapt to these challenges.#detroit_pistons #marcus_smart #maxi_kleber #rui_hachimura #trevor_lane
Rui Hachimura News: Massive workload in win Rui Hachimura played a significant role in his team’s 142-130 victory over Chicago on Thursday, contributing 15 points (6 of 10 from the field, 3 of 5 from beyond the arc), along with one rebound, one assist, and one steal across 40 minutes of action. Despite the return of LeBron James to the lineup, Hachimura carried a heavy workload as the team dealt with the absence of several key players. His performance underscored his importance to the roster during this stretch of the season. Over his past seven games, Hachimura has averaged 10.9 points, 2.6 rebounds, 1.1 assists, and 2.1 three-pointers per contest, while logging 27.8 minutes per game. His ability to step up in high-pressure situations has been a consistent factor in the team’s recent success. The 40-minute effort against Chicago marked another instance of his durability and adaptability, as he continued to contribute despite the challenges of a shortened roster. The game’s outcome highlighted the team’s reliance on players like Hachimura to fill critical roles when key contributors are unavailable. His efficiency from both inside and outside the arc, combined with his defensive contributions, made him a valuable asset in the victory. As the season progresses, his ability to manage a heavy workload while maintaining productivity will be crucial for the team’s success.#season #team #lebron_james #chicago #rui_hachimura
Lakers' Rui Hachimura to Start from Bench Against Nuggets Rui Hachimura will not start for the Los Angeles Lakers in their matchup against the Denver Nuggets on Saturday, according to reports from The Athletic. The decision comes as the team welcomes back Marcus Smart, who has returned from injury and is expected to take a starting role. Hachimura, who has been a key contributor for the Lakers, has started in all of the team’s previous four games but will now enter the game as a bench player. The 25-year-old forward has been a consistent performer for the Lakers, averaging 13.2 points, 2.8 rebounds, 1.6 assists, and 2.6 three-pointers per game over his last five contests. He has played an average of 30.6 minutes per game during that span, showcasing his ability to impact the game despite the increased workload. His presence on the floor has been crucial for the Lakers’ offensive output, particularly in their recent victories. Hachimura’s bench role for Saturday’s game is part of the Lakers’ strategic adjustments as they navigate the NBA season. The team’s coaching staff has been balancing the minutes of key players while ensuring the roster remains competitive. Smart’s return adds depth to the backcourt, allowing the Lakers to manage their star players’ minutes more effectively. The decision to move Hachimura to the bench highlights the team’s focus on maintaining player health and optimizing lineups for different matchups. While Hachimura’s absence from the starting lineup may be a setback for the Lakers’ offensive firepower, his ability to contribute off the bench remains a valuable asset. The team will rely on his scoring and playmaking to keep the game competitive, especially against a Nuggets squad that has shown resilience in recent weeks.#lakers #denver_nuggets #marcus_smart #rui_hachimura #nba_season
Luke Kennard is already threatening to lead the Lakers in one crucial category Luke Kennard was brought in to make it rain from beyond the arc. The new Los Angeles Lakers sharpshooter has done just that 11 games into his stint in Hollywood. Kennard has been so effective that he is already pushing to be the statistical leader in one key category for the Lakers. It is not secret to anyone in Los Angeles that the second unit has been incredibly ineffective in 2025-26. The Lakers rank 29th in the NBA when it comes to bench scoring, only outpacing the Houston Rockets in that category. The poor scoring efforts have left the team lacking in another category too. The Lakers rank 29th in the NBA when it comes to 3-pointers made from their bench, only placing higher than the woeful shooters of the Orlando Magic. This area has been so lacking throughout 2025-26 that Kennard is already well on his way to being the team leader from any individual player. Kennard has appeared in 10 games off the bench for the Lakers. In those outings, the veteran sniper has pocketed 15 made 3-point shots. That puts him halfway to Dalton Knecht, who leads the category with 30 made triples as a part of the second unit for Los Angeles in his 45 appearances. Luke Kennard is quickly becoming the Lakers' most dangerous bench threat At his current pace, Kennard would be projected to overtake Knecht in about 10 more games played. There is one caveat that could make that journey more challenging, though. Rui Hachimura is known to be a threat from the perimeter for the Lakers. Hachimura has also been moved back to the bench permanently for some time now. Rui is tied for second on the team with Gabe Vincent from 3-pointers made off the bench with 28. That number is not going to sit still.#lakers #gabriel_vincent #dalton_knecht #rui_hachimura #luke_kennard
Rui Hachimura's Physicality Key to Lakers' Dominance Over Warriors and Kings LOS ANGELES – Marcus Smart’s philosophy of “the toughest team sets the rules” has become a guiding principle for the Los Angeles Lakers, particularly in recent games. While the team has struggled to consistently embody this mindset throughout the season, Rui Hachimura believes the Lakers have made strides in recent matchups, especially after back-to-back victories over the Golden State Warriors and Sacramento Kings. These wins hinged on the Lakers’ ability to assert physical dominance from the outset, a factor that often goes unnoticed in traditional statistics but is critical to controlling the game’s tempo. The Lakers’ recent dominance against the Warriors and Kings was built on their aggressive approach to defense, relentless effort in rebounding, and commitment to small, often overlooked details like diving for loose balls and securing rebounds. Hachimura emphasized the importance of maintaining this intensity, noting that the team’s ability to set the tone early in games has been a key factor in their recent success. “When we did that today in the game [against the Kings], the game [against the Warriors], I think we set the tone,” he said after the win against the Kings. “That’s why we were able to control the whole game. We have to keep doing it. We have to make those plays and those small things. We have to keep building.” Hachimura’s return to the Lakers’ lineup after a two-game absence due to illness marked a pivotal moment in the team’s recent surge. In his first game back, he contributed eight points while shooting 2-of-4 from beyond the arc in over 22 minutes. Since his return from a calf injury in mid-January, Hachimura has averaged 11.7 points and 3.4 rebounds per game, shooting 50.1% from the field, 44.#los_angeles_lakers #sacramento_kings #golden_state_warriors #marcus_smart #rui_hachimura
