The LA Clippers’ most significant addition in free agency thus far has been Rui Hachimura. The Clippers already know what he brings to the table, as he’s torched LA through several matchups, which has the fans excited to see him suit up in red, white, and blue. However, before the 28-year-old steps on the court and begins contributing under Tyronn Lue’s direction, the team already faces one major question regarding his skill set: is Hachimura better suited to the starters or the second unit?
The answer? Well, it comes down to what Lue values. Hachimura’s strengths include three-point shooting, mid-range excellence, applying pressure at the rim, and being coachable. On the other hand, he has very notable weaknesses in rebounding and defense.
That said, soon, the question must be answered, as the team must begin preparing for the long regular season ahead.
The smarter decision would be to bring Rui Hachimura off the bench
Right off the bat, based on how well Rui Hachimura performed for the Los Angeles Lakers last season, it seems like a given he would be in the LA Clippers’ starting five on opening night.
He did average an efficient 11.5 points in the regular season across 68 games, and established himself as a playoff riser in 10 postseason games as the four-man in Los Angeles, where he logged almost 18 points per night on 69.0% true shooting.
Additionally, at six-foot-eight and 230 pounds, Hachimura has the size to play the starting power forward position in the Clippers’ starting five.
But the only problem with Hachimura in the first string is his flaws in crashing the glass and holding his ground on defense.
Hachimura is known to have concerns in both areas. When you ask yourself whether he fits well alongside Brook Lopez and Darius Garland, two of the five sure starters for the Clippers at the moment, the answer is certainly no.
Rather, Hachimura will be best utilized contributing off the bench, as the second unit desperately needs his presence.
Hachimura could also be in the running for the league’s Sixth Man of the Year award if Bennedict Mathurin does not end up returning to the Clippers.
So, at the end of the day, it’s a win-win for both sides. Hachimura entering the game as a backup gives him a more prominent role he likely wants, which is smarter for LA’s rotation, and, in the process, he may end up receiving the recognition he has long desired.
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