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Rui Hachimura Switches Lakers Fans to Clippers in Memorable Jersey Swap

After parting ways with the Lakers, Rui Hachimura is encouraging his fans to follow him to his new team. On his Instagram account @blacksamurai, a video shows Hachimura giving a Clippers jersey to a young fan who was wearing his No. 28 Lakers jersey. The forward urged the boy to exchange it for the new Clippers gear.

"This one looks way cooler," Hachimura said about the Clippers jersey. "Everyone, please go buy the Clippers jersey."

Hachimura’s Journey and Stats

Hachimura signed a two-year contract worth $28 million with the Los Angeles Clippers in July. He played parts of four seasons with the Lakers, averaging 11.5 points and 3.3 rebounds per game. In the 2025-26 season, he had an impressive shooting percentage of 51.4% overall and 44.3% from beyond the arc.

Challenges Facing the Clippers

The forward arrives amid a tough period for the Clippers franchise. They lost five first-round draft picks and faced a $30 million fine. Additionally, owner Steve Ballmer and president Lawrence Frank are dealing with suspensions. The Clippers have long struggled to emerge from the Lakers' shadow.

The 2026-27 season will be crucial for regaining trust and rebuilding the fan base after recent controversies.

Team’s Response and Outlook

At Clippers media day, interim president Trent Redden issued an apology to fans:

"Our fans deserve to hear from us before this, and for that we're sorry. We've been listening to the thoughts, concerns, and emotions of our fan base. They mean everything to us. We hope to fulfill our promises to them, build their trust, and move forward through this time."

Redden added that the franchise often performs best when under pressure, expressing hope the team will represent its fans strongly during difficult times.

Building a New Fan Base

The Clippers aim to hold onto their current supporters, but Rui Hachimura seems keen on attracting former Lakers fans as well, setting the stage for his first season with the team.

  • Player: Rui Hachimura
  • Previous Team: Los Angeles Lakers
  • New Team: Los Angeles Clippers
  • Contract: 2 years, $28 million
  • 2025-26 Stats: 11.5 PPG, 3.3 RPG, 51.4% FG, 44.3% 3PT
  • Clippers Penalties: 5 first-round picks lost, $30 million fine
  • Leadership Suspensions: Owner Steve Ballmer and President Lawrence Frank

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