Bradley Beal Struggles in Return as Clippers Lose to Suns
Bradley Beal had a difficult game in his first visit back to Phoenix since joining the Los Angeles Clippers. The Clippers fell 115–102 to the Suns on Thursday night.
Background on Beal's Return
This marked Beal's first appearance in Phoenix since his contract buyout with the Suns in July. The Suns' attempt to create a lasting "big three" with Beal, Kevin Durant, and Devin Booker had failed.
Beal's Performance
Beal scored only five points with one rebound and one assist, shooting just 14.3 percent from the field. This was one of his lowest-scoring games in his 14-year career, and he faced boos from the home crowd. The Clippers were missing key players James Harden and Kawhi Leonard.
Key Contributions and Game Flow
Phoenix’s Devin Booker led the Suns with 24 points, seven assists, and six rebounds, helping the team secure the win.
- The Clippers led at halftime 51–48.
- The Suns exploded with a 40-point third quarter, taking an 88–74 lead entering the final period.
- Despite efforts to rally, the Clippers couldn’t overcome the deficit as Phoenix held on.
Season Records and Next Matchup
The Clippers dropped to 3-5 overall and 0-3 on the road, while the Suns improved to 4-5 at home. Both teams have one win against each other this season and will face off again on Saturday in Los Angeles.
"Beal recorded five points, one rebound and one assist, shooting 14.3 percent from the field for the Clippers, who were without both James Harden and Kawhi Leonard."
"Phoenix's Devin Booker finished with 24 points, seven assists and six rebounds to hold off Beal and the Clippers for the win."
Author's summary: Bradley Beal struggled significantly in his Phoenix return, contributing minimally as the Clippers fell to the Suns amid key absences and a dominant third quarter from Phoenix.