The Los Angeles Clippers have secured free agent forward Rui Hachimura on a two-year contract worth $28 million, according to ESPN’s Shams Charania.
Contract structure
League sources said Hachimura and his agent, Darren Matsubara of THETEAM, finalized the deal shortly after free agency opened. The second season is a team option, giving the Clippers added roster flexibility.
Failed sign-and-trade attempt
The parties initially explored completing the move through a sign-and-trade with the Los Angeles Lakers, but the Lakers declined to participate, forcing the Clippers to sign Hachimura outright.
Cap considerations
Salary expert Yossi Gozlan of The Third Apron noted the Clippers could sign Hachimura using the non-taxpayer mid-level exception, which would hard-cap the team at the NBA’s first apron. Alternatively, using available cap space would avoid that restriction.
Adding the 27-year-old forward is expected to limit the club’s ability to extend a major offer sheet to restricted free agent Peyton Watson. To remain active in the market, the front office may need to shed additional salary.
Role in a new era
Hachimura averaged 14.5 points and 5.3 rebounds last season and is projected to take on a significant role as the Clippers transition to life without Kawhi Leonard.
Source: Hoops Wire
