The Los Angeles Clippers had a clear plan all along—they didn’t let Norman Powell go just to dodge a hefty contract. Instead, they focused on a strategic move, acquiring John Collins and Bradley Beal who are expected to join on two-year deals worth $11 million each, with player options in the second year, pending exemption approval.
This move also highlights the puzzling decision to part ways with Phoenix Suns’ Beal, who signed a $19.2 million annual deal for five years. The Clippers seem to have found the perfect mix: a well-timed opportunity, the right team environment, a fitting player, and an affordable contract.
In Phoenix, Beal had become a liability due to a large contract and non-trade clauses, but in Los Angeles, he’s a bargain at just $5.3 million this season. Joining a veteran-laden squad, he won’t be the marquee star but rather a vital piece in a compelling puzzle. The Suns had stretched their defense thin, while the Clippers boast one of the league’s top defenses, strengthened further by the addition of Brook Lopez. Beal’s defense won’t carry the team alone, but with protective teammates like Ivica Zubac and Lopez, and more strategic switch defense, he’ll fit well.
Offensively, Beal enters an ideal situation. Playing alongside James Harden and Kawhi Leonard isn’t much different from his past experience with Devin Booker and Kevin Durant, but now Harden clearly commands the offense. Beal will benefit from Harden’s playmaking and Leonard’s ability to draw double teams, giving him ample chances to break down defenses. The Clippers’ screeners and floor spacers will also make scoring easier for Beal. Coach Tyronn Lue’s known for his tactical rotations, so Beal’s role will be managed carefully.
Beal has never advanced past the second round of the playoffs since 2017. At his Phoenix introduction, he expressed excitement about teaming with two Hall of Famers to chase a championship. Though that didn’t pan out, this move offers a fresh start with similar aspirations, but a more balanced roster.
The Clippers’ front office, guided by Lawrence Frank, aims to keep medium- and long-term flexibility. Apart from Kawhi’s $50.3 million salary in 2026-27, no big contracts extend beyond that year. Harden, Lopez, and Nicolas Batum signed two-year deals this summer, with partial or no guarantees in their second years. A big extension for 32-year-old Powell didn’t fit this plan.
However, the Clippers want to win now. The Powell-for-Collins trade was confusing but highlighted the need to fill a shot-making void left by Powell. Adding Beal gives them a scoring guard at a reasonable cost and a roster that could compete with the West’s best on paper. It’s an older team with injury concerns but balanced with playmaking, shooting, defense, and rim protection.
Unlike Powell, Beal is not far from his peak. His 21.9% usage last season was a career low, partly due to missed games and role changes, but he remained efficient, shooting nearly 60% true shooting and hitting over 40% on catch-and-shoot threes. He also quickly developed chemistry with the big men on pick-and-roll plays.
Despite Kawhi missing over half the season and Paul George’s departure last summer, the Clippers still won 50 games last year due to their defense and depth. They now hope this foundation will help Beal become his best self. While Collins was overlooked in Utah and Beal struggled in Phoenix, they fill critical roles for Los Angeles. The Clippers have a history of rejuvenating players like Batum, Chris Dunn, and Bogdan Bogdanovic.
Fan Take: This acquisition is a key moment for the Clippers, signaling their intent to compete at a high level immediately while maintaining future flexibility. Basketball fans should watch closely, as this move could redefine the Western Conference landscape and breathe new life into established stars.
