Rui Hachimura Scores 12 Points in Return for Clippers Against Timberwolves

Rui Hachimura returned from a two-game absence due to left thigh soreness to score 12 points for the Los Angeles Clippers in a 127–101 loss to the Minnesota Timberwolves on October 31, 2026, at Target Center during the Emirates NBA Cup 2026 West Group B stage.

Hachimura Returns with a 12-Point Performance

Hachimura stepped straight back into the starting lineup alongside Darius Garland, Kris Dunn, Derrick Jones Jr., and Isaiah Jackson. Playing 26 minutes and 22 seconds, the forward shot efficiently from beyond the arc, converting two 3-pointers while adding five rebounds and two steals. His first score came with 4 minutes and 45 seconds remaining in the opening quarter when he gathered an opponent’s missed shot and drained a 3-pointer from the left wing.

🚑 Rui Hachimura is questionable. If he sits, Garland goes from 21.9 to 23.9 points in our sims.We split all 10,000 sims of Clippers vs Timberwolves by whether he plays (he does in 57%).✅ WITH HACHIMURA🎲 Clippers win 34%🏀 Avg score: Clippers 111, Timberwolves 116⭐… pic.twitter.com/X2hxavMqPJ

— https://x.com/PropSims/status/2116193476807184439

The Clippers found themselves chasing the game early after surrendering a late first-quarter run, falling behind 34–24. Hachimura maintained an active presence on both ends of the floor through the middle quarters, pulling down offensive boards and converting a turnaround jump shot into a three-point play during the third period. Despite his efforts and 13 points from Brook Lopez, Los Angeles could not close the gap against Minnesota’s high-volume offense.

Timberwolves Pull Away in the Second Half

Minnesota controlled the tempo as the game wore on, extending a 13-point halftime lead into a decisive advantage by the final period. LaMelo Ball led the charge for the Timberwolves with 24 points and seven assists, orchestrating an attack that kept the Clippers’ defense scrambling. Jaden McMahuels chipped in 23 points, while Nah’Shon Hyland added 19 points and eight assists to secure the victory.

Garland paced Los Angeles with a team-high 24 points and five assists, while rookie-season contributor Keaton Wagler added 12 points. However, defensive lapses on the perimeter proved costly as Minnesota hit timely 3-pointers in the fourth quarter to stretch the margin past 20 points, closing out the Emirates NBA Cup group-stage matchup comfortably.

Upcoming Schedule at Target Center

The Los Angeles Clippers continue their road trip following the tournament fixture, while the Minnesota Timberwolves return to action inside Target Center for their next scheduled Emirates NBA Cup group fixture.