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
