Overview

• Beal joined the Clippers on a two-year, $11 million deal after a Suns buyout that used the waive‑and‑stretch provision.
• Lue cited Beal’s Phoenix production as underappreciated, noting roughly 18 points per game on about 50% shooting and over 40% from three as a third option behind Kevin Durant and Devin Booker.
• Los Angeles plans to lean on Beal to score and make plays, with him likely the third option alongside Kawhi Leonard and James Harden and positioned to start at shooting guard after the Norman Powell trade.
• Analysts caution that a veteran, ball‑dominant roster featuring additions like Chris Paul and Brook Lopez could strain touches, while Lue acknowledged Beal’s defense is stronger versus top scorers than in lower‑leverage matchups.
• Durability remains a question after 58 games missed across two Suns seasons, and the Clippers’ title hopes hinge on health and clean integration of roles.