Overview
- Beal and the Suns finalized a mutual buyout on July 16, with the guard returning $13.9 million of his remaining salary to sever ties.
- After clearing the waiver process, Beal will sign a two-year pact worth $11 million that includes a player option for the 2026-27 season, positioning him for potential free agency next summer.
- Phoenix will use the NBA’s waive-and-stretch provision to spread Beal’s leftover cap hit over five years, dropping below both tax apron thresholds and unlocking roster flexibility.
- Several contenders—including the Heat, Bucks, Timberwolves and Lakers—courted Beal once he received permission to negotiate, but he opted for Los Angeles based on fit.
- The Clippers view Beal as a veteran scorer and playmaker alongside Kawhi Leonard and James Harden, aiming to bolster an experienced backcourt for another title push.