Overview

• Beal joined the Clippers on a low-cost deal after a July buyout with the Suns.
• Lue said Los Angeles will rely on Beal to score and also create for teammates by drawing extra defenders and making the right reads.
• On defense, Lue said Beal excels when challenged by quality matchups but is less effective against weaker assignments.
• Lue framed Beal’s Phoenix stint as overshadowed by Devin Booker and Kevin Durant, noting efficient production and calling the move a fresh start.
• Coverage highlights fit risks with Kawhi Leonard and James Harden, defensive concerns in a Beal–Harden backcourt, and questions about older additions like Chris Paul and Brook Lopez.