Free agent forward Rui Hachimura has agreed to a two-year, $28 million contract with the LA Clippers, league sources told ESPN and The Athletic on Monday.
The deal includes a team option for the second year.
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Hachimura and his agent, Darren Matsubara of THE•TEAM, initially sought a sign-and-trade between the two Los Angeles franchises, but talks stalled.
The Clippers used cap space or the non-taxpayer midlevel exception to secure the 6-foot-8 forward, who averaged 11.5 points per game last regular season while shooting 51.4 percent from the field and 44.3 percent from three-point range.
Playoff Performance and Fit
During the playoffs, Hachimura started all 10 games for the Lakers and emerged as the team's third-leading scorer, averaging 17.5 points per contest.
He scored a postseason-high 25 points against the Oklahoma City Thunder on 9-for-15 shooting.
His perimeter efficiency, especially from the corners, previously helped space the floor for Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves.
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Hachimura ranked fifth in the league during the postseason with a 56.9 percent three-point percentage.
The Clippers coaching staff specifically targeted Hachimura for his athleticism and shooting.
He is expected to compete for a starting frontcourt role alongside Brandon Ingram, joining a lineup featuring guard Darius Garland and rookie Keaton Wagler.
Hachimura's departure from the Lakers followed extensive offseason roster changes that left him without a spot.
He had been with the organization since being traded from the Washington Wizards in January 2023.
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The move helps offset the Clippers' loss of Kawhi Leonard to Toronto, though the financial commitment restricts their ability to pursue Denver Nuggets restricted free agent Peyton Watson.
