Los Angeles Clippers Sign F Rui Hachimura 2yr/28m During The NBA Offseason
Going into free agency, Rui Hachimura was seen as a top commodity on the open market. He gained a strong reputation as one of the best ‘3&D’ wings, which would be incredibly valuable to a contender looking for a top-tier role player. Hachimura is one of the best playoff role players in the league. He is the all-time leader in 3-point % in the playoffs at 51.6% and stepped up big time in the playoffs last season with the Los Angeles Lakers. Without Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves, Hachimura upped his points per game from 11.5 in the regular season to 17.5 in the playoffs. He was extremely efficient as well, shooting an extraordinary 57% from three.
With the proven track record as a dominant role player who can elevate his game come playoff time, there was expected to be a huge market for Hachimura. Surprisingly enough, the Clippers were able to snag him on a much lower-than-expected 2-year, $28 million deal. This is an amazing contract, considering many elite role players attract closer to $20 million annually.
Even though the Clippers may not be built to win a championship this year or even the next, this contract is still great because it is extremely tradeable. If the team finds itself outside the playoffs by the trade deadline, many teams would be calling to acquire Hachimura. This type of player, especially one on such a great contract, is extremely valuable at the deadline. This should drive up the asking price big time, allowing the Clippers to get back a great package which could help build the foundation for their next championship roster. If they hang on to Hachimura and end up making the playoffs, this contract will still be amazing, given his reliable track record of shining when the lights are brightest.
