Throughout Chris Paul’s career, he has prioritized his family while also doing what is best for his career. This meant playing games thousands of miles away and visiting back home during breaks or in February, when All-Star weekend would take place.
But the time finally came for Paul to make a family-first decision, and he elected to take a discount to sign with the LA Clippers. This choice was notable to those close to him, the front office, and fans, although it cost him a few million.
Moreover, Paul wanted to end off in LA, and several players on the current roster have the same mindset. However, Bradley Beal, who was also in the free agent market this summer, took the same route as Paul, for the same reason, with the same mindset.
This was news to everyone, as the three-time All-Star shared his perspective on the Clippers’ media day.
Bradley Beal wants to remain with the LA Clippers long-term
Once the news broke that Bradley Beal had ultimately signed a one-year deal with the LA Clippers, as the second year will only go into effect if he accepts his player option, fans jumped to the conclusion that he would be gone after he has the inevitable, successful, prove-it year.
This was from a financial standpoint, as Beal is earning one of the lowest salaries of his career next season at just $5.3 million.
But, reporters were curious on the Clippers’ media day about how Beal felt about staying in Los Angeles for a second contract and beyond.
The veteran guard answered promptly and dove straight into the facts. He began by mentioning his family, specifically his wife, being from Los Angeles, and added that he enjoys the city and visits every offseason for training and workouts.
Additionally, Beal made a shocking mention of Lawrence Frank, indicating that this is already a topic of discussion, which ultimately means the front office is on board with him staying a Clipper.
Many of these reasons sound familiar as to why Chris Paul signed with LA, and the similarities are evident, as the Hall of Fame point guard will most likely retire a Clipper.
That said, if Beal plays well enough, Frank and the front office will ensure he will never have to move to another city again. He will get to stay close to family, like Paul, and one day hang up his final jersey in the colors of red, white, and blue.