What happened: Bradley Beal declined a $5.62 million player option earlier this offseason. Hip surgery ended his 2025-26 season after six appearances.
Why it matters: Los Angeles added Darius Garland and No. 5 pick Keaton Wagler to a reshaped backcourt. The $13.2 million commitment gives the Clippers another scorer and ball-handler at a limited cost.
By the numbers: Beal averaged 8.2 points and 1.7 assists in 20.2 minutes across six games last season. He has not played more than 60 regular-season games since 2018-19.
What to watch: Training camp will clarify Beal’s role alongside Garland and Wagler for 2026-27.