In a significant move within the NBA, Bradley Beal has officially parted ways with the Phoenix Suns. On Wednesday, the veteran guard and the Suns reached an agreement to buy out the remainder of Beal’s contract, making him a free agent. Following the buyout, Beal is set to sign a two-year, $11 million contract with the LA Clippers once he clears waivers, as reported by league sources to The Athletic.
As part of the buyout agreement, Beal will forfeit $13.8 million from the $110.8 million owed to him by the Suns over the next two seasons. This financial restructuring allows the Suns the option to stretch the remaining $97 million over five years, resulting in a dead cap hit of $19.4 million that will remain on their salary cap through the 2029-30 season.
The discussions surrounding a potential buyout began in early July, with the Clippers emerging as frontrunners for Beal’s services after the Suns granted him and his agent, Mark Bartelstein, permission to explore opportunities with other teams. A key factor in this decision was the influence of former MVP James Harden, who actively encouraged Beal to join him in Los Angeles, where Beal has established connections.
Beal shares a long-standing relationship with Clippers head coach Tyronn Lue, both hailing from Missouri. Moreover, his rapport with Clippers trainer Jesse Phillips, developed during their time together with the Washington Wizards, adds to the appeal of joining LA. Bartelstein emphasized that Beal sees a strong basketball fit with the Clippers, aided by Lue's vision on how to maximize Beal's abilities.
Beal will join a formidable starting lineup that includes Harden, Kawhi Leonard, and Ivica Zubac. This new dynamic is expected to provide Beal with opportunities to thrive as a scorer and playmaker, enhancing the Clippers' overall offensive capabilities.
The Suns are undergoing a significant transformation this offseason, reworking not only their roster but also their coaching staff and front office. Owner Mat Ishbia aims to cultivate a team characterized by toughness and resilience. In July, the Suns executed a trade involving superstar Kevin Durant, acquiring a package that included Jalen Green, Dillon Brooks, and the 10th pick in the recent NBA Draft, Khaman Maluach.
Beal’s departure was anticipated after the Suns failed to build a championship-contending team. Despite acquiring Beal from the Wizards in the summer of 2023, the trio of Beal, Durant, and Devin Booker could not propel the Suns to success, culminating in a disappointing performance in the 2024 playoffs where they were swept by the Minnesota Timberwolves.
While Beal showed flashes of his potential during his time with Phoenix, he struggled with injuries, missing 35.4% of regular-season games over the past two seasons. This injury history, coupled with a no-trade clause that limited the Suns’ ability to move him, complicated the situation. However, with the buyout finalized, Beal's no-trade clause is no longer in effect, opening up opportunities for him in free agency.
During his tenure in Phoenix, Beal averaged 17 points per game, shooting 49.7% from the field and 38.6% from three-point range. His versatility allowed him to play various roles, from running the point to coming off the bench and defending opposing players. As the Suns pivot towards building around Booker, who recently secured a two-year contract extension through the 2029-30 season, the team is clearly focused on the future.
The Clippers have identified three primary needs this offseason: enhancing their frontcourt, improving ballhandling, and boosting shooting capabilities. Beal's availability was pivotal in their strategic decisions, leading to a trade that increased their frontcourt size while also allowing them to pursue Beal actively.
While concerns remain regarding Beal's durability—averaging 33 missed games per season over the past four years—his talent and potential to contribute significantly to the Clippers are undeniable. With Beal's motivation to reclaim his form and establish his value in LA, the Clippers are optimistic about integrating him into their evolving roster.
As the Clippers prepare for the upcoming season, the addition of Beal alongside Collins and newly acquired center Brook Lopez represents a notable talent upgrade that could reshape their dynamics on the court.
