Bradley Beal to Join Clippers After Buyout

Bradley Beal and the Phoenix Suns have reached an agreement for a buyout of Beal's contract, allowing him to become a free agent. Beal, 32, will sign a two-year, $11 million contract with the LA Clippers once he clears waivers. He will return $13.8 million of the $110.8 million owed by the Suns over the next two years, with the possibility of the remaining $97 million being stretched over five years.

Discussions about the buyout began in July, with the Clippers emerging as the frontrunners to sign Beal. His new contract includes a $5.3 million salary for 2025-26 and a $5.7 million player option for 2026-27. Beal was convinced to join the Clippers by former MVP James Harden and has existing relationships with head coach Tyronn Lue and Clippers trainer Jesse Phillips.

The Suns, undergoing changes in their organization, traded Kevin Durant to the Houston Rockets and have parted ways with Beal after acquiring him in 2023. Beal's departure follows the Suns' recent playoff struggles, including a first-round sweep in 2024 and missing the Play-In Tournament last season. The decision to move Beal was influenced by his injury history and lack of trade interest due to his contract and no-trade clause.

With Beal and Durant gone, the Suns will focus on building around star guard Devin Booker. Meanwhile, the Clippers sought to address frontcourt, ballhandling, and shooting needs this offseason, leading to the acquisition of Beal to enhance their roster alongside John Collins and Brook Lopez. Beal's durability and defensive capabilities are areas of concern, but the Clippers are optimistic about his potential contributions.