Rui Hachimura's Humorous Locker Room Mix-Up in Clippers Debut
Former Lakers forward Rui Hachimura playfully attempted to enter the Lakers' locker room before his first game with the Clippers at Crypto.com Arena.
Rui Hachimura, now with the Los Angeles Clippers, shared a lighthearted moment during his return to Crypto.com Arena, the venue where he spent his initial three-plus seasons with the Lakers. Before the crosstown showdown between the Clippers and Lakers, Hachimura humorously tried to enter the Lakers' locker room.
Hachimura eventually found his way to the visitors' locker room to join his new Clippers teammates. He signed a two-year, $28 million deal with the Clippers this summer after the Lakers had expressed mutual interest in a reunion.
His decision to join the Clippers occurred amid a turbulent summer for the organization, which faced significant penalties from the NBA. The league sanctioned the Clippers for circumventing the salary cap, resulting in the forfeiture of five first-round draft picks, a $30 million fine, and suspensions for owner Steve Ballmer and president of baseball operations Lawrence Frank. Despite these sanctions, Hachimura has voiced confidence in the Clippers' organization, citing their positive treatment of players as a key factor in his decision.
The 2026-27 NBA season is poised to be a significant one for both Los Angeles franchises. For the Lakers, the focus will be on Luka Doncic's ability to lead the team and contend for a championship. Meanwhile, the Clippers aim to demonstrate their resilience and recovery in the wake of the recent scandal.