Bradley Beal struggled in his first game back in Phoenix, as the Los Angeles Clippers were defeated 115–102 by the Suns on Thursday night. This marked Beal's first visit to Phoenix since his contract buyout with the Suns in July, ending the attempt to build a lasting "big three" with Beal, Kevin Durant, and Devin Booker.
Beal posted one of his lowest scoring games of the season, finishing with five points, one rebound, and one assist. His field goal percentage was a low 14.3%. The Clippers played without key players James Harden and Kawhi Leonard, impacting their performance.
"Beal averaged his third-lowest points total last season with the Suns over his 14-year career."
Beal faced boos from the crowd during his return. Devin Booker led the Suns with 24 points, seven assists, and six rebounds to secure the victory.
Fans expressed disappointment in Beal's limited impact on the game. The Suns' dominant third quarter, scoring 40 points, turned a halftime deficit into a commanding 88–74 lead entering the fourth quarter.
"Los Angeles entered halftime with a 51–48 lead before an explosive 40-point third quarter from the Suns put them ahead 88–74 entering the final frame."
Despite a late effort from the Clippers, the Suns maintained control to complete the win.
Summary: Bradley Beal's difficult return to Phoenix ended in a decisive Clippers loss, highlighting both his struggles and the Suns' strong team effort led by Devin Booker.
Would you prefer the summary to focus more on Beal's individual performance or the overall game outcome?