Los Angeles Clippers coach Tyronn Lue believes Bradley Beal’s production was underappreciated during his time with the Phoenix Suns. Speaking on Shannon Sharpe’s “Club Shay Shay” podcast, Lue noted that playing alongside Devin Booker and Kevin Durant limited Beal’s visibility despite strong numbers.
“When you play for a team like Phoenix like he did the last couple of years, you got Booker and KD and you’re the third option,” Lue said, via Duane Rankin of Arizona Republic. “People like, ‘oh he didn’t.’ He averaged 18 points, shot 50% from the field and 43% from 3.”
Lue described those statistics as “unbelievable” and emphasized that Beal’s move to Los Angeles provides a fresh start. The coach believes the veteran guard will make a significant impact for the Clippers on both scoring and playmaking.
Beal is expected to serve as the third option behind Kawhi Leonard and James Harden while providing scoring depth and facilitating for teammates. “He’s definitely going to be a big help for us offensively,” Lue said. “We’re going to need him to score, but outside of scoring, we’re going to need him to make plays for other guys.”
The Clippers secured Beal after he cleared waivers following a buyout with Phoenix, making him an unrestricted free agent. He signed a $5.4 million deal with a player option for the second year, giving him flexibility for the future.
Lue praised Beal’s versatility, noting his ability to score off pick-and-rolls, come off screens, and play both on- and off-ball. “He can create his own or he can play off the ball. He’s a great cutter. He’s also a great playmaker who is going to make everybody else better,” Lue said in a team press release.
During the 2024–25 season with Phoenix, Beal averaged 17.0 points and 3.7 assists per game while splitting time between starting and coming off the bench. He shot efficiently from deep, making 37.6% of his three-point attempts over his career.
Joining a retooled Clippers roster featuring veterans like John Collins and Brook Lopez, Beal adds championship experience alongside Leonard and Harden. The team views him as a key addition in their push to contend in the 2025–26 season.
