Clippers Make Crucial Decision on Yuki Kawamura’s NBA Future

The Los Angeles Clippers announced on Monday that they have waived point guard Yuki Kawamura ahead of the 2026-2027 NBA regular season. The 25-year-old Japanese player had initially signed a one-year, non-guaranteed Exhibit 10 training camp deal in August. Despite a solid preseason showing, Kawamura fell short of earning a spot on the opening night roster as the team trimmed its preseason roster to 20 players.

Kawamura is now widely expected to join the G League affiliate San Diego Clippers due to affiliate protections in his deal. Joining San Diego gives him the chance to earn a $91,000 bonus if he stays for at least 60 days. The former Memphis Grizzlies and Chicago Bulls guard can also explore free agency options if he chooses not to report to the G League affiliate.