The Los Angeles Clippers have nearly finalized their roster after a series of offseason moves, highlighted by the July 18 signing of three-time All-Star Bradley Beal to a two-year, $11 million contract following his buyout from the Phoenix Suns. This addition, key to the Bradley Beal Clippers trade impact, has led to speculation that the team may part ways with one of their high-salary guards to ease backcourt congestion.
Alongside Beal, the Clippers bolstered their lineup by acquiring veteran playmaker Chris Paul, dynamic forward John Collins, and experienced center Brook Lopez, strengthening depth across various positions. Despite these enhancements, the team remains financially flexible, with guaranteed salaries beyond 2027 limited primarily to center Ivica Zubac. However, this wealth of talent in the backcourt might leave someone like Bogdan Bogdanović vulnerable to trade discussions before the 2025-26 season.
Sam Amico Identifies Bogdan Bogdanović as Likely Trade Candidate
NBA analyst Sam Amico of Hoops Wire points to shooting guard Bogdan Bogdanović as the Clippers’ most probable trade option in light of Beal’s arrival. In his recent article listing trade candidates for every NBA team, Amico highlighted the uncertainty surrounding the Serbian guard’s role and his appeal to other franchises needing offensive firepower.
Bogdan Bogdanović is the perfect shooter-for-hire type, and with Bradley Beal now in the mix, it’s hard to know how much Bogdanović will play,
Amico wrote.
He likely would be the first on the move if the Clippers feel the need to deal.
—Sam Amico, NBA Analyst
With Bogdanović in the third year of a four-year, $68 million contract, including a $16 million salary next season and a team option for 2026-27, acquiring teams would face no long-term burdens. Though his production dipped last season, he contributed meaningful spacing and playmaking off the bench.
After being traded from the Atlanta Hawks midseason, Bogdanović averaged 11.4 points, 3.1 rebounds, and 3.2 assists over 30 games with Los Angeles, connecting on 2.0 three-pointers per contest on efficient shooting percentages of 47.4% from the field, 42.7% from three-point range, and 87.5% at the free-throw line. However, his scoring dropped in the playoffs.
With Harden and Beal set to start in the backcourt, alongside Paul’s veteran presence and Kris Dunn’s defense in the second unit, Bogdanović’s minutes may dwindle, suggesting he might be better suited to a trade or change of scenery if the Clippers decide to reshape their roster further.
Potential for Bogdanović to Return to the EuroLeague Before Retirement
Despite still being under contract, Bogdanović has expressed interest in finishing his basketball career in Europe, where he first made his mark before joining the NBA. He has acknowledged that his health will play a critical role in this decision.
I had that goal when I was leaving [for the NBA], but I’ll see how my health is later in my career. I want to come back, of course, but I have to stay healthy,
Bogdanović said in May. —Bogdan Bogdanović, Shooting Guard
Before entering the NBA at age 24 ahead of the 2017-18 season, Bogdanović played for Partizan and Fenerbahçe from 2010 to 2017. He won the 2017 EuroLeague championship with Fenerbahçe and earned a spot on the All-EuroLeague First Team that same year. Given his comments, a return to the EuroLeague could become likely if his NBA role becomes limited in the coming seasons.
Implications for the Clippers and Future Outlook
The acquisition of Bradley Beal clearly shifts the Clippers’ priorities and backcourt rotation, placing Bogdanović’s role into question. The $68 million contract he holds makes him a valuable trade asset for teams seeking shooting and floor spacing, especially as the Clippers balance minutes with stars Kawhi Leonard and James Harden. Whether Bogdanović remains on the roster or moves elsewhere will influence the Clippers’ depth and flexibility heading into a competitive Western Conference season.
Should the Clippers opt not to trade Bogdanović before the season begins, it signals confidence in managing their crowded guard rotation. However, if a deal materializes, it could open more playing time for other guards and create roster space for additional moves. For Bogdanović, this juncture may determine whether he continues his NBA journey or begins preparing for a return to European basketball, aligning with his long-term aspirations.