The deadline for rookie contract extensions was yesterday, October 17th. Several players from the 2019 NBA draft got the bag earlier in the off-season, while others had to strike a deal at the last possible second. However, the Wizards were not able to lock up the ninth overall pick in the 2019 draft, Rui Hachimura. Now he will be heading into the season on an expiring deal.
The Washington Wizards and Rui Hachimura did NOT reach a rookie extension deal before today’s 6 p.m. Eastern deadline. Hachimura, who is about to begin his fourth NBA season, is on track to become a restricted free agent in the offseason.
— Josh Robbins (@JoshuaBRobbins) October 17, 2022
Rui Hachimura has been good thus far in his career, but he has never played more than 57 games in a season. This preseason has shown a different side of Rui. He has become more aggressive and looks healthier than ever.
He was easily the most consistent player on the Wizards during the preseason, as he is vying for the other starting forward spot next to Kyle Kuzma.
So why won’t the Wizards give Rui and extension? There are concerns over his health, but more importantly is there enough to go around.
Kuzma was the unsung hero for the Wizards last season. He improved across the board and took over games, especially with the absence of Bradley Beal. Kuzma has fully integrated himself as the third guy on this team and someone that the organization will want for the future of the franchise.
Next off-season, Kuzma will be a free agent, and will be due for a big payday. A contract worth $100 million is within in reach for him. That might leave Rui on the outside looking in for an extension.
The talent and contribution is there for Rui, but the Wizards might need to make the choice between him and Kuzma. A lack of an extension for Rui should not mean that the Wizards have no faith in him. This is more of a decision that needs to be made now with ramifications for next off-season.
Hopefully Rui can perform at his best and set career highs, while re-signing in the off-season. One can hope.