▲ Rui Hachimura
Rui Hachimura, a member of the Japanese men's national basketball team, is leaving the NBA's Los Angeles Lakers to join the LA Clippers.
Sports media outlet ESPN reported on July 7 (KST) that Hachimura, who became a free agent, has agreed to a two-year, $28 million (approximately 42.8 billion won) contract with the Clippers.
It is reported that Hachimura had hoped for a sign-and-trade deal, where he would first sign with the Lakers before moving to another team, but the Lakers did not agree to the arrangement.
Hachimura, who was selected by the Washington Wizards in the 2019 NBA Draft, was traded to the Lakers during the 2022-2023 season.
Hachimura delivered an impressive performance during the 2025-2026 season playoffs, averaging 17.5 points with a 54.9% field goal percentage and a 56.9% three-point shooting percentage.
(Photo: AP, Yonhap News)
※
Copying, redistribution, and unauthorized use in AI training are strictly prohibited.