Bradley Beal leaves Phoenix for Los Angeles: Clippers’ projected lineup with James Harden, Kawhi Leonard for 2025-26 NBA season

The Los Angeles Clippers have made a significant acquisition in free agency by securing three-time All-Star Bradley Beal following a contract buyout with the Phoenix Suns. Beal is set to join the Clippers on a two-year, $11 million deal with a player option, bolstering an already formidable lineup featuring James Harden and Kawhi Leonard.

Beal’s stint in Phoenix was marred by injuries and inconsistent performance alongside stars Kevin Durant and Devin Booker. The move to Los Angeles represents an opportunity for Beal to revitalize his career within a team framework emphasizing flexibility and championship contention.

“BREAKING: Three-time NBA All-Star Bradley Beal has agreed to a contract buyout with the Phoenix Suns and plans to join the Los Angeles Clippers on a two-year, $11 million deal with a player option after clearing waivers,” reported Shams Charania, citing Mark Bartelstein of Priority Sports.

Projected Clippers starting lineup for 2025-26

With Beal integrated, the Clippers’ anticipated starting five projects as follows:

• Point Guard: James Harden
• Shooting Guard: Bradley Beal
• Small Forward: Kawhi Leonard
• Power Forward: John Collins
• Center: Ivica Zubac

What does Bradley Beal bring to the Clippers’ backcourt?

Beal’s addition is expected to create a dynamic offensive synergy with Harden and Leonard. Despite a dip in scoring last season to 17.0 points per game — his lowest since 2015 — Beal sustained impressive efficiency numbers, shooting 49.7% from the field and 38.6% from three-point range, according to Basketball Reference.

Defensively, concerns linger over the Harden-Beal backcourt pairing. However, head coach Tyronn Lue is likely to rely heavily on Ivica Zubac’s rim protection and Kawhi Leonard’s perimeter defense to maintain balance and effectiveness.

Strategic contract and future outlook

The structure of Beal’s contract — two years with a player option — offers both the Clippers and Beal flexibility. If Beal thrives, he can opt to stay beyond 2026-27 or renegotiate terms. Conversely, the Clippers maintain financial control as they navigate an increasingly competitive Western Conference landscape.

For Beal, this move offers a chance to contribute alongside championship-caliber talent without bearing the full offensive burden. For Los Angeles, it represents a strategic push to capitalize on the current window with their star core.