LA Clippers guard Bradley Beal will miss the remainder of the season following a hip fracture that requires surgery next week. The team made this announcement on Wednesday, revealing that Beal is expected to recover fully within six to nine months.
Lawrence Frank, the president of basketball operations for the Clippers, referred to Beal’s injury as “very, very fluky,” comparing it to the kind of damage sustained in a car accident. This type of injury is considered atypical for basketball, as it stems from acute trauma rather than a repetitive strain.
In addition to Beal’s setback, teammate Kawhi Leonard is also facing challenges on the court. Leonard, who has missed five games this season, is dealing with a sprained right ankle as well as a significant foot sprain. Frank noted that Leonard is progressing well, receiving treatment multiple times daily. He is expected to travel with the team on their upcoming seven-game road trip, starting Friday in Dallas.
Beal sustained his injury during a game against the Phoenix Suns, the team he played for before joining the Clippers. In just six appearances this season, he averaged 8.2 points and 1.7 assists. Beal signed a two-year, $11 million contract with the Clippers in July after the Suns bought out the remaining two years of his previous contract.
Throughout his career, Beal has faced a string of injuries that have hindered his play, having not participated in more than 60 games in a season since his 2020-21 showing with the Washington Wizards. Reflecting on Beal’s situation, Coach Tyronn Lue expressed the team’s disappointment, highlighting Beal’s character and determination to return to play.
Despite these injuries, there remains a sense of optimism surrounding the Clippers. Leonard’s ongoing recovery and Beal’s commitment to rehabilitation hold promise for the future, as the team looks to regroup and build on their potential once fully healthy.