Beal Buys Out Suns Contract, Joins Clippers
Veteran Guard Secures LA Move After Two Seasons in Phoenix
Bradley Beal has finalized a contract buyout with the Phoenix Suns, concluding his two-year tenure with the franchise. The move paves the way for Beal to sign a new deal with the Los Angeles Clippers.
New LA Destination
Sources indicate Beal is set to ink a two-year agreement worth $11 million with the Clippers. This deal includes a player option for the 2026-2027 season, potentially making him a sought-after free agent next year.
Beal‘s primary focus was reportedly on finding the optimal basketball environment. In Los Angeles, he will join a roster featuring stars like James Harden, Kawhi Leonard, Ivica Zubac, and Derrick Jones Jr.
Difficult Suns Stint
The acquisition of Beal in 2023, following 11 seasons with the Washington Wizards, did not yield the expected results for the Suns. Despite teaming up with Kevin Durant and Devin Booker, the team struggled to establish dominance in the Western Conference.
Durant has since been traded to the Houston Rockets as Phoenix initiates a rebuilding phase. Beal himself was moved to a reserve role last season, a rare occurrence in his nearly decade-long career. Trade rumors involving Jimmy Butler also surfaced during this period.
Beal was still due nearly $111 million on his contract before the buyout agreement. He was earning over $50 million annually.
Statistical Decline and Team Struggles
Last season, Beal posted his lowest scoring average since his rookie year, with 17 points per game. He also contributed 3.7 assists and 3.3 rebounds, while shooting nearly 50% from the field.
The Suns finished last season with a 36-46 record, failing to qualify for the playoffs. The team also made a significant coaching change, parting ways with Mike Budenholzer and hiring Jordan Ott, their fourth head coach in four seasons.
Despite the challenges in Phoenix and previous difficult stretches with the Wizards, the 32-year-old Beal is embarking on a fresh start with his third NBA team.
Notably, the NBA’s salary cap is projected to increase significantly in the coming years, with the 2024-2025 season cap estimated at $136 million. This financial landscape could impact future player movement and contract negotiations across the league (ESPN).
