After signing with the LA Clippers almost a year ago, then only suiting up for just six regular-season games, the organization’s era with Bradley Beal is likely about to come to an end. How so? Well, the Clippers just drafted Keaton Wagler with the fifth overall pick. Because he is a guard and someone who will play the two-spot next to Darius Garland, there is no sense in rostering Beal, along with multiple others, in the backcourt.
Beal is probably aware of this harsh reality himself, and it certainly doesn’t help his case that he turns 33 years old in less than a week. As a result, two options could take place: a declined player option or a trade.
Fortunately, for the Clippers, Beal is easily movable. He was only signed for a tad bit over $5 million annually, a smart decision by the front office, which is practically nothing in today’s NBA.
Keaton Wagler will fill in the shoes of Bradley Beal without a problem
At the shooting guard position, Bradley Beal’s main jobs were to score efficiently, make plays, and try his hardest on defense. He definitely let the coaching staff down, as he posted averages of 8.2 points and 1.7 assists, shooting 37.5% from the field and 36.8% from beyond the arc.
These numbers are atrocious and back up how bad a signing he was for the LA Clippers. But, on the bright side, Keaton Wagler will be able to do what he was supposed to, even better.
While that’s a lot to expect out of a rookie, who is only 19 years old, Wagler demonstrated his ability to excel offensively for the Illinois Fighting Illini.
In fact, Wagler logged jaw-dropping numbers of 17.9 points, 5.1 rebounds, and 4.2 assists as a freshman.
This is a great sign that Wagler will do just fine in Beal’s role. On the defensive side of the ball, though, is where the youngster will do better.
He was near flawless for Illinois in locking down, and in all honesty, it’s one of the main reasons the Clippers didn’t let him slip past fifth overall.
That said, the short era between Beal and the Clippers seems to be coming to a close. His services are no longer needed, as the front office has a better-suited option to take his place.
Now, had the Clippers taken a big man, like Aday Mara, a second season of Beal in LA would’ve become so much more likely to happen.
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