Among the several key signings the Los Angeles Clippers have made this offseason, Bradley Beal‘s addition is considered noteworthy. Given the interest he received from other teams, the three-time All-Star revealed why he opted to sign with the Clippers.
In an interview with KMOV’s Tamar Sher, Beal expressed his title aspirations, which could be fulfilled by joining Los Angeles. He shared:
“I need a ring. You know I want one bad. I felt like I got a new life of rejuvenation, for sure, a new hunger. I’m excited about the opportunity. New city, new environment. But a hungry environment, too. Definitely excited about the opportunity to go win.”
“Ring chasing” often has negative connotations from a public opinion standpoint. However, much of this stems from the outlook on ring culture and how winning a title is attributed to greatness.
Beal’s decision to prioritize a ring at this point in his career seems fair. After 13 years in the NBA, the star guard seems intent on adding a championship to his list of achievements, effectively cementing his legacy as well.
Beal’s addition has also been significant for the Clippers. After an exhaustive period of discussions with the Phoenix Suns, the guard finally agreed to a buyout deal with the team, leaving $13.9 million on the table. At a discounted price, Beal adds a lot of value to Los Angeles’ rotation, potentially emerging as a key contributor in the team’s efforts.
It is understandable why Beal has viewed the Clippers as an ideal destination to fulfill his dreams. When considering the strength and depth of the team’s roster, LA is primed to be one of the most competitive teams in the league next season.
The Clippers, although old, will feature a wealth of talent next season. Led by the superstar duo of Kawhi Leonard and James Harden, they could be title contenders in the West should the team remain healthy.
Beal Opens Up On Giving Chris Paul The No. 3 Jersey
Among the many notable signings the Clippers made in the offseason, reuniting with franchise legend Chris Paul may be among the most significant ones.
Signing the 40-year-old was special in many ways. This reunion was also marked by Paul donning the iconic No. 3 jersey, courtesy of Beal’s decision to part with it.
The guard opened up about his decision to give Paul the No. 3 jersey during his interview with Tamar Sher. He said:
“Chris is lucky we have a previous relationship outside of basketball. We were good. I grew up playing in his camps too. It was kind of like a big bro thing. I had a choice, but I didn’t really have a choice out of respect.”
“It was a no-brainer for me. You don’t know if it’s his last year. You don’t speak on that. That’s his story to tell. If it is, and I have the opportunity to share the floor with him, I want him to have the number he came here with.”
Beal’s decision has sentimental value, but it is a reflection of the camaraderie within this unit. While Paul may not play a significant role in the Clippers’ rotation, having him on the bench, or even in the locker room, will be immense for the team’s approach to the upcoming season.
With all the right pieces in place, the Clippers will look to make the most of their squad depth to establish themselves as title contenders in the Western Conference.
