Bradley Beal to Clippers would end Chris Paul’s hopes of LA return

Bradley Beal has emerged as a serious target for the Los Angeles Clippers, but his arrival would likely close the door on a Chris Paul reunion.

Marc Stein reported on his Substack that the Clippers are among several teams pursuing Beal, along with the Lakers, Bucks, and Timberwolves. The Clippers recently agreed to trade Norman Powell to the Miami Heat in a three-team deal that also brings back John Collins from Utah.

Miami, once thought to be a prime destination for Beal, appears out of the running after acquiring Powell. That leaves Los Angeles as one of the frontrunners for the veteran guard, who spent last season with the Phoenix Suns.

If the Clippers succeed in pairing Beal with James Harden in their backcourt, it would effectively eliminate the possibility of Paul returning to the franchise. According to Stein, Paul has made it clear he wants to remain near his family in the Los Angeles area if he plays a 21st NBA season.

Paul, 40, played six seasons for the Clippers from 2011 to 2017 and averaged 17.1 points and 9.2 assists over his 19-year career. He last played for the San Antonio Spurs in the 2024–25 season, where he appeared in 82 games and averaged 8.8 points and 7.4 assists.