For undersized guards in the NBA, defense often comes down to effort, as they are required to hustle in a specific way, such as Patrick Beverley, to earn minutes. Others, for example, Kawhi Leonard, possess the body, strength, and tools, such as massive claws, that instantly make them an elite defender.
Most guys in the NBA, unlike Leonard, make their living off being great on just one side of the ball. Not everyone can score, rebound, playmake, and defend, as Leonard is a rare case, showcasing his status as a generational talent.
Recently signed guard Bradley Beal is the epitome of a one-sided athlete. He has had moments of exceptional hustle and excellent perimeter protection in his career, but the three-time All-Star is known to score the ball, as that is where he is credentialed.
In 801 career games, Beal has averaged 21.5 points, 4.3 assists, and 4.1 rebounds, shooting 46.4% from the floor and 37.6% from a distance. He also eclipsed 30 points per game for two consecutive seasons, one of which he was selected to both the All-Star and All-NBA teams.
Moreover, the Clippers have developed a system where effort is a requirement on defense, and Jeff Van Gundy will ensure it occurs. This applies to Beal for the two seasons he is on the books as a Clipper.
However, in an interview with several Clippers reporters, Frank set a standard for Beal that may be considered too high based on his 13-year career.
Lawrence Frank expects Bradley Beal to play both ways for the LA Clippers without any support from his previous two stints
In over 30 consistent minutes per game, Bradley Beal can deflect the ball and sometimes gain possession, which marks a steal, but that does not mean he is a two-way talent.
On the contrary, Lawrence Frank mentioned Beal’s abilities on both ends over the weekend, primarily referring to his defense, as many are aware of his prominence as a scorer.
Lawrence Frank on Bradley Beal: "I do think Brad is a two-way player, because he's capable of doing it."
— Farbod Esnaashari (@Farbod_E) July 19, 2025
The optimism is a wonderful sight from the team’s lead executive, as he is confident Beal will impress over his two-year deal and rebuild his reputation as one of the world’s best shooting guards, who can do it all.
Conversely, with the Phoenix Suns, Beal had sequences of poor effort and subpar coverage. This is, and has been, a concern for the iconic Washington Wizard, showing that Frank’s hopes may just be a sense of bias toward the three-level scorer.