NBA Rumors: Clippers, Bradley Beal, Hawks, Devin Carter, Pistons

Clippers

Clippers guard Bradley Beal is betting on himself.

According to NBA insider Chris Haynes, the veteran guard has declined his $5.62 million player option and will become an unrestricted free agent after appearing in just six games last season because of a hip injury.

The move suggests Beal believes he’ll find a stronger market than his player option offered.

That said, the Clippers aren’t necessarily out of the running. The Athletic’s Law Murray reported Los Angeles remains interested in a reunion, while NBA reporter Mark Medina says that interest is mutual as Beal continues working his way back from surgery.

At 33, health will almost certainly be the biggest question teams ask before making an offer.

Hawks

The Hawks are taking a low-risk flier on former lottery pick Devin Carter.

Atlanta has agreed to acquire Carter and a future second-round pick from Sacramento, according to ESPN’s Shams Charania.

Carter was selected 13th overall in 2024 but never gained much traction with the Kings because of injuries and inconsistent play. The move also helps Sacramento trim salary as it looks to move below the luxury tax.

Whether Carter ultimately sticks in Atlanta or becomes part of another transaction remains to be seen, but the Hawks aren’t giving up much to find out if the 24-year-old still has untapped potential.

Pistons

The Pistons continue checking off smaller pieces of their offseason.

Detroit exercised its team options on guard Daniss Jenkins and center Tolu Smith, according to Spotrac’s Keith Smith.

Jenkins emerged as one of last season’s better stories after going from a two-way contract to a regular part of the rotation, averaging 9.3 points while earning the trust of the coaching staff.

Smith appeared in just 15 regular-season games, but with Isaiah Stewart now in Memphis, he’ll have an opportunity to compete for a larger role in Detroit’s frontcourt heading into training camp.