Bradley Beal Criticizes Former Suns Coaches Over Usage, Discusses Clippers Role Amidst Injury Return

Los Angeles Clippers guard Bradley Beal, returning to Phoenix for the first time since his departure, openly criticized his former Suns coaches, Frank Vogel and Mike Budenholzer, for not allowing him to be 'that guy.' Beal, who was booed by Suns fans, shot 2-of-14 in the Clippers' 115-102 loss, playing on a minutes restriction after undergoing knee surgery in May. During his two seasons in Phoenix, Beal was limited to 53 games each season, averaging 17.6 points and 4.3 rebounds with 60.3 true shooting. Clippers coach Tyronn Lue emphasized Beal's crucial role despite his slow return, stating, 'He's a big part of what we're trying to do,' and that they must bring him along slowly. Beal, an All-Star averaging 31.3 points in 2021, is expected to fill a key scoring role for the Clippers.