Speculated Celtics Target Reportedly Joins Contender After Buyout

Bradley Beal won’t be teaming up with close friend Jayson Tatum.

Beal agreed to a contract buyout with the Phoenix Suns and plans to join the Los Angeles Clippers, as first reported by ESPN NBA insider Shams Charania on Wednesday. Beal reportedly will sign a two-year, $11 million deal including a player option that allows him to become a free agent next summer.

Beal reportedly thought about joining the Golden State Warriors, Los Angeles Lakers, Milwaukee Bucks or Clippers when it became apparent he would have his contract bought out. The Minnesota Timberwolves, Lakers and Bucks had extensive conversations with Beal in recent weeks, Charania reported.

Given Beal and Tatum have a close relationship, some questioned whether Beal could join the Boston Celtics this offseason. However, Tatum will miss most, if not all, the 2025-26 campaign and Boston’s financial standing likely hindered any interest.

Damian Lillard, who was bought out by the Milwaukee Bucks earlier this month, also has been linked to the Celtics. Both Lillard and the Celtics reportedly have expressed mutual interest, and Tatum apparently has tried to pitch the nine-time NBA All-Star to Boston.