Clippers Sign Brook Lopez $18M Limiting Midlevel Cap

Brook Lopez has signed with the Los Angeles Clippers using a significant portion of their $14.1 million midlevel exception, which limits the team's flexibility to sign other high-profile players like Bradley Beal. While there is optimism that Beal and the Phoenix Suns might reach a buyout agreement, Lopez's deal leaves the Clippers with about $5.32 million remaining in the exception, raising doubts about their ability to afford Beal's expected salary demands. Lopez's addition is the only outside acquisition for the Clippers since the draft, alongside retaining James Harden and Nicolas Batum on multi-year deals. Meanwhile, Collin Sexton expressed excitement about his new opportunity with the Charlotte Hornets, highlighting the team's positive environment and eagerness to succeed. Sexton emphasized the welcoming atmosphere and the strong desire among players to be part of the Hornets organization during the offseason. This suggests a fresh start and leadership role for Sexton as he joins the Hornets.