Bradley Beal and Suns Finalize Contract Buyout: Star Guard Set to Join Clippers, Sources Reveal

Bradley Beal’s stint with the Phoenix Suns has come to an end. The veteran guard and the Suns reached a deal for a buyout, making Beal a free agent. Reports indicate he will sign a two-year, $11 million contract with the LA Clippers once he clears waivers.

Beal, 32, agreed to forfeit $13.8 million of the $110.8 million owed to him by the Suns. This allows Phoenix to stretch the remaining $97 million over five years, resulting in a $19.4 million cap hit each season through 2030.

The conversations about his buyout started in early July, with the Clippers emerging as the frontrunner to sign him. Beal’s bond with Clippers’ head coach Tyronn Lue, who hails from Missouri like Beal, played a pivotal role. Additionally, Beal is close to Clippers trainer Jesse Phillips, enhancing the fit. Team president Lawrence Frank was also persistent in pursuing Beal, emphasizing the Clippers’ strong vision.

The Suns have been busy reshaping their roster and front office this offseason. Owner Mat Ishbia aims to build a tough and gritty team. They recently traded superstar Kevin Durant to the Houston Rockets for guard Jalen Green, forward Dillon Brooks, and the 10th pick in the recent NBA Draft.

The move away from Beal wasn’t unexpected. Acquired in a trade with the Wizards in 2023, his pairing with Durant and Devin Booker promised excitement but yielded disappointment. The Suns failed to make a significant playoff run, losing in the first round to the Minnesota Timberwolves. They finished the last season at 36-46, missing the Play-In Tournament altogether.

Attempts to trade Beal at the previous deadline showed little interest, partially due to his hefty contract and a no-trade clause. His history of injuries also complicated things—he missed over a third of the regular-season games during his time in Phoenix.

Despite these challenges, when healthy, Beal demonstrated his skills. Last season, he averaged 17 points while shooting nearly 50% from the field. He also adapted well defensively and in facilitating plays, showing his versatility.

On the Clippers’ end, they sought to fill gaps in their roster this offseason by improving their frontcourt, ballhandling, and shooting. Beal’s skill set fits well with their needs. For instance, while Beal averaged 3.7 assists last season, he has a career average that reflects greater playmaking capabilities.

However, durability remains a concern. Beal has averaged around 33 missed games per season over the last four years, and while he has strong offensive skills, his defense has room for improvement.

As Beal integrates into the Clippers, fans are eager to see how he will mesh with stars like James Harden, Kawhi Leonard, and newcomer John Collins. The dynamics of their lineup are shifting, and how Beal carves out his role will be crucial for the Clippers.

In the end, both Beal’s adaptation to the Clippers and the Suns’ continued rebuilding efforts will be intriguing narratives in the upcoming season.



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Los Angeles Clippers, Phoenix Suns, NBA