Clippers Waive Yuki Kawamura Days Before NBA Regular Season

The Los Angeles Clippers waived point guard Yuki Kawamura late Monday, ending the 5-foot-7 Japanese guard’s preseason bid for a roster spot less than two weeks after he appeared at Clippers Media Day. Kawamura had joined Los Angeles on an Exhibit 10 contract and made his lone preseason appearance against Toronto, scoring 10 points with four assists and two steals in 14 minutes.

The move leaves Kawamura searching for his next opportunity with the regular season approaching. He appeared in 18 games for Chicago last season, averaging 3.4 points and 2.6 assists, after beginning his NBA career with Memphis. His speed, passing and international following have made him a fan favorite, but securing a stable NBA role remains difficult in a league where roster size and defensive matchups can work against smaller guards.

There is still a possible path back into the Clippers organization. Because Kawamura was on an Exhibit 10 deal, the G League’s San Diego Clippers could become an option if he clears waivers and both sides want to continue the relationship. Los Angeles also still has flexibility with its two-way slots. For Kawamura, the next few days could determine whether his third NBA season continues in the United States or sends him toward another opportunity.