The LA Clippers have won the race for Bradley Beal. The three-time All-Star is heading to Los Angeles after agreeing to a contract buyout with Phoenix.
Beal will pocket £13.9 million less than expected. He’s giving back that amount from his remaining £110 million deal to secure his exit from the Suns. The 32-year-old guard is set to sign a two-year, £11 million contract with the Clippers once he clears waivers.
The deal includes a player option for the 2026-27 season. This gives Beal the flexibility to test free agency again if he wants.
Clippers Build Star Power
The move reunites Beal with some serious talent. He’ll join Kawhi Leonard and James Harden in what looks like a formidable attacking trio.
The Clippers (1.19) have been busy this summer, adding veteran centre Brook Lopez and forward John Collins through a three-team trade. Norman Powell went the other way to Miami (2.60) as part of that deal. Beal slots straight into Powell’s starting spot at shooting guard.
James Harden played a key role in convincing Beal to choose Los Angeles (2.25). The former MVP spoke directly to Beal and his representatives during the recruitment process.
Phoenix Experiment Fails
Beal’s time in Phoenix never clicked. The Suns permitted him to speak with other teams after it became clear the partnership wasn’t working.
The numbers tell the story of his struggles. Beal managed just 106 games out of a possible 164 over two seasons. Injuries plagued his stint, limiting his impact when it mattered most.
His averages of 17.6 points, 4.3 assists and 3.8 rebounds weren’t terrible. He shot 50.5% from the field and 40.7% from three-point range. But the team’s success never followed.
The Suns had hoped Beal would form a “Big Three” with Kevin Durant and Devin Booker. That dream died when Durant was traded to Houston earlier this summer.
Multiple Suitors
The Clippers weren’t the only team chasing Beal’s signature. Miami Heat, Milwaukee Bucks (26.08), Minnesota Timberwolves (17.05) and even cross-town rivals the Lakers all made their pitch.
His agent, Mark Bartelstein, ran an exhaustive process over several weeks. Teams held extensive meetings with Beal and his camp before the guard made his final decision.
The Clippers’ pitch won out. They offered the best combination of winning potential and financial security.
Financial Flexibility
The buyout gives both sides what they want. Phoenix (181.57) gets massive salary cap relief by shedding most of Beal’s contract. They’ll likely spread the remaining payments over five years to soften the blow.
The Suns now have access to more tradeable draft picks and can use part of their mid-level exception. Owner Mat Ishbia had promised changes after last season’s disappointment.
For the Clippers, they get a proven scorer without breaking the bank. They had only £96 million in guaranteed contracts heading into next summer before adding Beal.
Washington Roots
Beal spent his first 11 NBA seasons with Washington (502.57) after being drafted in 2012. He made All-Star teams in 2018, 2019 and 2021. His best individual season came in 2021 when he made the All-NBA third team.
His career averages of 21.5 points, 4.3 assists and 4.1 rebounds show his consistent production. He’s shot 37.6% from three-point range across his career.
The Wizards traded him to Phoenix in 2023 for Chris Paul, Landry Shamet and second-round picks. Beal used his no-trade clause to help choose his destination then.
Western Conference Impact
Beal’s arrival makes the Clippers genuine contenders in the loaded Western Conference. They now have three players capable of taking over games when needed.
The 32-year-old brings playoff experience and clutch gene to a team that’s fallen short in recent years. His ability to create his own shot will be crucial in tight games.
Phoenix continues its complete roster overhaul under new coach Jordan Ott and general manager Brian Gregory. The Suns have already moved Durant and are building around Booker with younger pieces.
Beal’s next chapter begins in Los Angeles. The Clippers believe they’ve found the missing piece for a championship run.
