After much speculation, Beal finalized a deal to relinquish nearly $14 million from the $110 million remaining on his contract, paving the way for Phoenix to waive him and allowing the veteran guard to enter free agency.

Once the buyout is complete and Beal clears waivers, he will sign a two-year, $11 million contract with the Clippers. The deal features a player option for the 2026–27 season and offers Beal the opportunity to hit the market again next summer if he chooses.

This marks a dramatic reset for Beal, whose tenure in Phoenix saw him transition from a $251 million max contract—acquired after a trade from Washington—to a far more modest salary as the Clippers’ latest acquisition.

Beal’s Fit in Los Angeles

The Clippers identified Beal as a prime backcourt target following their trade of Norman Powell and offseason additions of Brook Lopez and John Collins. James Harden reportedly played an influential role in recruiting Beal to Los Angeles, where the guard is expected to fit alongside Harden and Kawhi Leonard as a versatile scorer and finisher.

The Clippers prioritized shooting, playmaking, and experience—areas in which Beal’s skill set and 13 years of NBA history provide real upside, especially at his current salary.

Though Beal’s productivity dipped in Phoenix—where he averaged 17 points and missed significant time due to injury—he brings career averages of 22.1 points and 37.6% three-point shooting to a roster intent on contending in the Western Conference.

Head coach Tyronn Lue’s long-standing relationship with Beal and established roster connections are believed to have helped seal the agreement.

Suns’ Strategic Reset

Phoenix, meanwhile, capitalizes on a financial reprieve as Beal’s buyout and subsequent waiving allow the franchise to escape the restrictive first and second salary cap aprons. 

Distributing the remainder of Beal’s contract with a “stretch provision” will ease the Suns’ cap situation over the next five years, helping them pivot toward a new era after also parting ways with Kevin Durant this summer.

For Beal, the move represents both a fresh start on a playoff-contending team and a chance to rehabilitate his market value at age 32. For the Clippers, it’s a potentially shrewd bet on an accomplished veteran at remarkable value in a critical offseason for one of the West’s most ambitious franchises.