As NBA free agency intensifies, two of the league’s most recognizable names—Bradley Beal and Chris Paul—are once again being linked to the Los Angeles Clippers. According to NBA insider Marc Stein, both players are at the center of developing situations that could reshape the Clippers’ backcourt for the 2025-26 season.
Beal’s Suns Exit Looms, Clippers a Prime Destination
Beal’s tenure with the Phoenix Suns appears to be nearing a formal conclusion. Stein reported that the two sides are “close to finalizing a waive-and-stretch buyout agreement,” which would allow Beal to hit free agency and choose his next team. Despite having more than $110 million remaining on his contract, Beal is reportedly willing to forgo $13.8 million to accelerate his departure.
According to The Stein Line, “All signs point toward the Los Angeles Clippers” as the front-runner to land the three-time All-Star. The Clippers’ recent trade of Norman Powell to Miami, which netted them John Collins, cleared room in the backcourt and hinted at more moves to come.
Stein noted that the Clippers “have both the roster space and the financial means to bring in [Beal],” using the $5.3 million remaining on their mid-level exception. Beal would join a roster that now includes Collins, Brook Lopez, and returning stars Kawhi Leonard and James Harden.
However, Stein and other observers have noted the risks. Beal has missed considerable time in recent seasons, and pairing him with Leonard and Collins—both of whom have struggled with injuries—could prove precarious. Still, “in a tight Western Conference,” Stein wrote, “the upside may be too tantalizing to ignore.”
Chris Paul Eyes L.A. Return Amid Backcourt Shuffle
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While the Beal rumors continue to gain momentum, the possibility of a Chris Paul reunion in Los Angeles has also emerged, particularly if Beal’s departure opens a spot in Phoenix.
“A return to the Phoenix Suns for Chris Paul? It is emerging as a tangible possibility in NBA free agency,” Stein wrote Friday. But that hinges on whether Phoenix re-signs Tyus Jones, who is attracting strong interest from the Orlando Magic and others.
Stein adds that “a reunion with the Suns is indeed possible if Tyus Jones leaves Phoenix in free agency.”
Meanwhile, the Clippers, another of Paul’s former teams, have also been linked to the veteran guard. “The Los Angeles Clippers…are said to be weighing a second engagement with the 12-time All-Star,” Stein reported, adding that Paul is determined to play closer to his family in Los Angeles after spending last season with the Spurs.
Paul, now 40, started all 82 games for San Antonio in 2024-25, averaging 8.8 points and 7.4 assists while mentoring the Spurs’ young core. However, the Spurs’ recent additions—De’Aaron Fox, Dylan Harper, and Stephon Castle—have effectively closed the door on Paul’s return.
“There is no longer room in San Antonio’s backcourt for Paul despite his many contributions last season,” Stein wrote.
Given his desire to remain on the West Coast and his likely willingness to sign for the veteran minimum, Paul could become an ideal depth piece for the Clippers—a stabilizing presence behind Harden and a mentor for younger guards.
Clippers Trade Rumors: Final Decisions Approaching
With Beal’s buyout nearing resolution and Paul’s next chapter coming into focus, the Clippers are positioned to reshape their backcourt with both upside and experience.
Whether it’s Beal’s scoring or Paul’s leadership, Marc Stein has made it clear: “The Clippers are at the heart of both conversations.” As free agency unfolds, Los Angeles could emerge with one—or both—veteran guards as they make a final push toward contention in 2025-26.