Beal’s injury and timeline
Los Angeles Clippers guard Bradley Beal will miss time after injuring his left hip. Head coach Tyronn Lue confirmed the news before Monday’s game against the Atlanta Hawks. The team expects Beal to sit out several games while doctors complete imaging to learn more about the injury.
The 32-year-old Beal hurt his hip last Thursday during a 115-102 loss to the Phoenix Suns. The play happened when he was trying to take a charge. He still appeared in Saturday’s rematch against Phoenix, scoring 12 points in 20 minutes, his highest total this season.
A slow start in Los Angeles
Beal’s first season with the Clippers was difficult. He is averaging 8.2 points and 1.7 rebounds in his career through six games. The veteran guard has struggled to find rhythm next to Kawhi Leonard, Paul George and James Harden.
Before joining the Clippers, Beal was known for his consistency in scoring. Over fourteen NBA seasons, he averaged 21.4 points and 4.3 assists in 807 games. He spent most of his career with the Washington Wizards (2012-2023), followed by brief stints with the Phoenix Suns (2023-2025) and now the Clippers.
Lue’s adjustment to the lineup
With Beal sidelined, Lue changed his starting lineup for the Atlanta game. He replaced Beal with forward John Collins instead of another guard. “We struggled to rebound the basketball,” Lue said. “Statistically, Collins has been a very good rebounder. By putting him next to Ivica Zubac, we can become bigger. We were small with Beal.”
The Clippers entered the week with a mixed start to the season. Injuries to key players have limited chemistry and led to frequent lineup changes. Despite flashes of strong play, the team is still looking for stability.
Next steps for Beal and the Clippers
The Clippers hope Beal’s imaging results bring good news. Until then, they will rely on their depth to stay competitive in the Western Conference. The veteran guard’s health will be critical if the Clippers hope to make a serious playoff run.
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