Clippers' Norman Powell Trade Reportedly Seen as 'Precursor' for Bradley Beal Contract

The Los Angeles Clippers traded away their second-leading scorer from a season ago, and the move reportedly could mean there's more to come this offseason.

Per NBC Sports' Kurt Helin, the Clippers sending Norman Powell to the Miami Heat "is seen as a precursor" to the team signing Phoenix Suns guard Bradley Beal.

NBA insider Marc Stein reported earlier this week that Beal "is actively exploring his options with other teams in anticipation" of a contract buyout with the Suns.

On his current contract, Beal is set to earn $53.7 million next season and has a player option worth $57.1 million in 2026-27. That pricey contract makes him a hard sell on the trade market, so the Suns might be forced to eat what's left on his contract to move on from him.

Gerald Bourguet of PHNX Sports reported that a buyout is "imminent" and the team is likely to stretch the $96.9 million of the $110.8 million remaining on his contract over the next five years.

While Beal isn't a desirable player on the trade market because of his contract, he could be a worthwhile addition on an affordable contract if the Clippers can sign him.

Beal, though not the player he once was, is still a decent scorer and a solid perimeter defender. Last season, he put up 17 points on 49.7 percent from the field and 38.6 percent from deep.

Alongside James Harden and Kawhi Leonard, Beal could make the Clippers a tough out in the playoffs.

But Los Angeles might have some competition if the Suns buy out Beal's contract. Fred Katz of The Athletic reported Monday that Beal "has thought about" the Golden State Warriors, Los Angeles Lakers and Milwaukee Bucks, along with the Clippers.

Beal and the Suns will first have to figure out a contract buyout, but if he becomes a free agent, there should be plenty of interest in the veteran.