In the ever-chaotic Wild West of the NBA, the Los Angeles Clippers are not just trying to stay afloat — they’re going full throttle. Their latest chess move? Snagging sharpshooter Bradley Beal after his buyout from the Phoenix Suns. And yeah, it’s official now. According to Beal’s agent, Mark Bartelstein of Priority Sports, the three-time All-Star has agreed to a two-year, $11 million deal with the Clippers. The second year? It’s a player option, which means Beal holds the cards and can hit the free-agent market again after the 2025-26 season if he chooses.
Beal’s journey to LA wasn’t just a casual stroll. The Suns had him under a mega-deal — two years left and $110 million — but Beal opted to give back nearly $13.9 million of that to work his way out. Yeah, you read that right. The man gave up nearly $14 million just to get a fresh start. Now that’s dedication.
🔥 The New LA Big Three?
So here’s where things start to heat up. With Beal now in the fold, the Clippers boast a trio that’s built to bring the noise: Bradley Beal, Kawhi Leonard, and James Harden.
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Kawhi is still under contract for two years, $100 million
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Harden recently re-upped for two years, $81.5 million, also with a player option
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Now Beal’s in the mix with a manageable, cap-friendly deal
It’s safe to say Tyronn Lue has some major offensive firepower at his disposal. While injuries have been the villain in the Clippers’ playoff sagas the past few seasons, this lineup brings a mix of experience, skill, and sheer basketball IQ. And that’s before you even get to the supporting cast.
A Roster Shake-Up That Goes Beyond Beal
This move wasn't just about adding Beal. It’s part of a broader reset. One big domino that fell: Norman Powell, who’s now headed to the Miami Heat in a three-team trade. In return, LA picked up John Collins from the Utah Jazz.
Let’s talk about Collins for a second. At 6’9”, just 27 years old, Collins brings much-needed athleticism, versatility, and size to a roster that was leaning a bit too veteran-heavy. Last season, he dropped 18.9 points and 8.2 rebounds per game, while shooting an impressive 52.7% from the field and nearly 40% from three. That’s not just filler production — that’s real, impactful stuff.
🧠 Cap Space Strategy Pays Off
Credit where it’s due: Lawrence Frank, Clippers’ president of basketball ops, wasn’t bluffing when he said LA needed to open up cap space to get serious in the offseason. It’s rare that you pull off a value signing like Beal under the radar, but with the right financial maneuvering, they did just that.
Even sweeter? The Clippers didn’t just stop at Beal and Collins. Brook Lopez, formerly of the Milwaukee Bucks, is also heading west. He inked a two-year, $18 million deal to serve as Ivica Zubac’s backup — a savvy veteran addition to deepen the frontcourt. Lopez isn’t just a big body either. He’s coming off a season averaging 13.0 points, 5 rebounds, and 1.9 blocks per game, shooting 37.3% from downtown. Not bad for a guy once thought to be purely a paint presence.
What Does This Mean for the Starting Five?
Here’s the projected lineup, and it looks like a serious threat:
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Guards: James Harden, Bradley Beal
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Forwards: Kawhi Leonard, John Collins
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Center: Ivica Zubac
And behind them? Depth pieces like Brook Lopez and possibly... Chris Paul?
Yep, the Clippers are rumored to be eyeing a reunion with CP3. No official word yet, but if Beal clears waivers on Friday without a hitch, don’t be surprised if the front office makes one more nostalgic splash. CP3, even in the twilight of his career, could be a massive presence for LA’s bench unit — both as a leader and playmaker.
Beal’s Career in a Snapshot 🎯
Let’s rewind for a moment. Beal, now 32, spent 11 of his 13 seasons with the Washington Wizards, where he earned three All-Star selections (2018, 2019, 2021) and even made All-NBA Third Team in 2021. That same year? He averaged a career-high 31.3 points per game, shooting nearly 49% from the field. At his peak, Beal is a bucket-getter, no doubt about it.
But there’s been some wear and tear. In his two seasons with the Suns, Beal played just 53 games each year, missing a total of 58 games due to various injuries. His scoring numbers dipped, too — from 18.2 PPG in 2023-24 to 17.0 last season. Still, he shot a solid 38.6% from three last year and holds a career average of 37.6% from deep.
Why This Move Makes Sense for Everyone
This isn’t just a feel-good story. It’s a calculated move by both sides. For the Clippers, they’re pushing all-in on this current window with Kawhi and Harden. Adding Beal for such a team-friendly price gives them another dynamic scorer who can also function as a secondary ball-handler or floor spacer.
For Beal, he gets a chance to play meaningful basketball again — no more rebuilding projects or drama-filled superteams. This is a team with structure, expectations, and a real chance to make noise in the postseason.
What's Next?
Once Beal clears waivers on Friday, it’s go time. The Clippers’ roster looks nearly locked in, but if the Chris Paul whispers turn into a deal, expect even more buzz out of LA. The Western Conference is stacked — from the reigning champs to up-and-comers like the Thunder — but the Clippers aren’t backing down.
This roster is no longer just about big names. It’s about chemistry, depth, and strategic firepower. And if they stay healthy? Don’t sleep on them making a real run at the top.
👀 Keep an Eye On:
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Will Beal regain his 25+ PPG form in a more structured offense?
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Can Collins finally get the national recognition his numbers deserve?
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Will CP3 really make a Clippers comeback?
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Can Lopez help solidify the team’s interior defense and spacing?
One thing's for sure — the Clippers aren't sitting around watching the West get better. They're betting on themselves. And with the additions of Beal, Collins, and Lopez, this might just be the most balanced, explosive, and intriguing Clippers squad we've seen in years.
So buckle up. This 2025-26 NBA season in LA is about to get real interesting.
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