Washington Wizards forward Rui Hachimura is set to be a restricted free agent next summer after failing to receive a rookie extension before Monday’s NBA deadline, ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski reports.
Hachimura and other first-round draft pick from the 2019 draft were eligible for a rookie extension. However, teams had to decide by Monday. As a result, the former Gonzaga standout will be a free agent at the end of the season. The Wizards will hold the rights to match any contract offer sheet Hachimura signs.
P.J. Washington (Charlotte Hornets), Cam Johnson (Phoenix Suns), and Grant Williams (Boston Celtics) were also among the 2019 draftees not to receive an extension, according to Wojnarowski.
Ja Morant (Memphis Grizzlies), Zion Williamson (New Orleans Pelicans), R.J. Barrett (New York Knicks), Darius Garland (Cleveland Cavaliers), Tyler Herro (Miami Heat), and Jordan Poole (Golden State Warriors) were the most notable first-rounders to receive a contract extension.
Technically, Hachimura was eligible for a max of $188 million over five years. Yet, realistically, the target for a deal was closer to about $10-$15 million per year. Hachimura will make just under $6.3 million for the 2022-23 season.
Unfortunately, three seasons into his career, there is a lot unknown about Hachimura. Selected ninth overall by the Wizards, Injuries and other ailments have limited the Japan native to 147 career games. He hasn’t played more than 57 games in a season, failing to reach more than 48 twice.
Last season, struggles with his mental health led Hachimura to miss 39 games to start the season. He averaged career-lows of 11.3 points and 3.8 rebounds in 42 games despite an uptick in his three-point shooting to 44.7 percent.
Hachimura is looking to fulfill expectations in his fourth NBA season. The Wizards have revamped the roster. Hachimura most likely comes off the bench behind Kyle Kuzma, Kristaps Porzingis, and Will Barton in the frontcourt.
Hachimura has averaged 13.0 points and 5.2 rebounds while shooting 36.0% from three in his career thus far. He will need to improve those marks to ensure the type of contract he may seek next summer.
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