Rui Hachimura Sounds Off On Major Clippers’ Roster Move
There are not many Japanese players who have had the chance to play in the NBA. That’s why, when the Los Angeles Clippers signed Yuki Kawamura to an Exhibit 10 deal, many fans rejoiced.
The team already has Rui Hachimura on its roster. Adding Kawamura means that two Japanese-born players could finally play for the same team – or so we thought. After just two preseason games, the Clippers decided to waive the 5-foot-8 point guard ahead of their season opener.
While Kawamura’s first preseason game with the team was a dud, he did bounce back in his second one. Against the Toronto Raptors, the 25-year-old had 10 points and four assists in just 14 minutes. However, his impressive play wasn’t enough in the eyes of the Clippers’ coaching staff.
This has become a recurring theme for the Japanese star. Play well, but not yet good enough to merit a standard contract. While he’s still young, his chances of getting signed, especially this upcoming season, are getting slim.
Rui Hachimura Gets Candid About Yuki Kawamura’s Future
The Clippers not giving Kawamura a chance must have stung for Hachimura. However, he also acknowledged why his teammate from the Japan national basketball team continues to struggle to stick at the NBA level.
‘He really worked hard during training camp, so I want him to keep that up. Also, while chasing your dream is important, you have to make smart decisions. He’s already 25 years old, so I want him to keep that in mind as he moves forward,’ Rui Hachimura said via BasketNews.
The Clippers star forward is just being honest here with his friend. The G League may be an appealing option again, but returning to Japan would make the most sense if earnings are considered.
The biggest hurdle with Kawamura’s NBA future is his size. While he has the skills to play in the NBA, there aren’t many 5-foot-8 players who have succeeded at that level. He can definitely try for another year and see if something good comes up. After all, he did excel in the G League for the last couple of seasons.
But getting a standard contract remains a distant dream for the diminutive floor general. While Kawamura may not want to end his NBA dream yet, his compatriot may want him to go back to the B.League and become the star he was destined to be there.