Beal Buyout Nears; Clippers Emerge as Frontrunners

Bradley Beal and the Phoenix Suns are nearing a buyout agreement, with Beal set to forfeit about $13.8–$14 million of his $110.8 million contract, allowing the Suns to waive and stretch the remainder over five years and avoid luxury tax penalties. The move follows the Suns' disappointing season and their trade of Kevin Durant, signaling a full roster rebuild. Beal, a three-time All-Star, is expected to become an unrestricted free agent, with the Los Angeles Clippers now viewed as frontrunners among interested contenders like the Lakers, Warriors, Bucks, and possibly the Heat. Due to salary cap constraints, most teams can only offer Beal mid-level or biannual exceptions, but he is prioritizing joining a championship-caliber team. Beal’s decision is anticipated to influence the free agency plans of guards including Malcolm Brogdon, Chris Paul, and Russell Westbrook. The buyout marks a major shift for both Beal's career and the Suns' organizational future.