One of the better moves the Los Angeles Lakers made over the past few seasons was the acquisition of forward Rui Hachimura. Throughout his time with the franchise, Hachimura grew exponentially, becoming one of the best 3-point shooters in the NBA and making Lakers and NBA history along the way.
That time with the Lakers has now come to an end, however, as Hachimura agreed to a two-year deal to join the Los Angeles Clippers in free agency. And following news of his departure, he took to social media to thank Lakers fans.
Rui bids farewell to the Lakers: https://t.co/9OoVJrRMBJ pic.twitter.com/XaoInYoUF6
— Lakers Nation (@LakersNation) July 6, 2026
Hachimura had many great moments for the Lakers throughout his nearly four seasons with the team and also showed that he could step up when the lights are brightest in the NBA playoffs. This past season was arguably his best as he was able to adjust to a reserve role while still setting a Lakers record for 3-point percentage in the regular season. Then in the playoffs, with injuries hampering the Lakers, he increased his scoring while also setting an NBA record for 3-point shooting in the playoffs.
Unfortunately, as the Lakers build this roster around superstar Luka Doncic it appears that the front office did not view Hachimura as the ideal fit. The Lakers have made a number of moves this offseason that they hope will push this team closer to championship contention, but only time will tell if that will be the case. And the Lakers still are in need of another defensive-minded wing after adding Walker Kessler, Quentin Grimes, Collin Sexton and Sandro Mamukelashvili this offseason.
In the meantime, Hachimura gets to start a new chapter in his playing career while still being able to remain in Los Angeles, which is something that he wanted to do. And the Lakers will have to figure out how to add another wing who can help to replace what Hachimura brought to this team on a nightly basis.
Jonathan Kuminga is Lakers’ top wing choice in free agency
The Lakers were reportedly ok with losing Hachimura in free agency as the team has already identified the wing player they wish to add this offseason. The front office has reportedly eyed former Golden State Warriors and Atlanta Hawks wing Jonathan Kuminga as their top wing choice even prior to Hachimura leaving for the Clippers and have maintained contact with him throughout the free agency process.
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