The Celtics might not be done making moves, with NBA insider Jake Fischer reporting the team is in the running to sign Bradley Beal, an unrestricted free agent. This could be a huge play, but it comes with some serious questions after Beal’s scoring numbers have taken a nosedive in recent seasons.
The Tatum Factor & LeBron’s Shadow
Fischer says a big reason the Celtics are even in the conversation for Beal is his connection with Jayson Tatum. These two go way back, growing up as childhood friends in St. Louis and even going to the same high school. They were supposed to team up for the Paris Olympics, which would’ve been their first time competing together, but Beal got hit with health and safety protocols right before the tournament. “Jayson and I have a special relationship,” Beal said before the Olympics. It makes sense why Boston might be attractive to him, right? But it’s not that simple. Fischer also mentioned that Beal’s decision isn’t being *held up* by LeBron James, but it’s definitely “being impacted by it.” Plus, the Heat and Clippers are also eyeing the three-time All-Star, so it’s not a done deal.
From All-Star Thunder to 8.2 Points
Beal was a beast, an All-Star three times, and he hit a career-best 31.3 points per game in 2020-21. That’s serious firepower! But things have changed since then. His scoring has declined in every season following that peak, dropping all the way down to a career-low 8.2 points in the six games he played with the Clippers in 2025-26. That’s a massive dip for a guy who used to carry an offense. The Celtics do have minutes available at the guard spot, so there’s an opportunity there. The big question is whether they should use those minutes on a player whose scoring has fallen off so much, or look to someone younger.
What’s next for Beal’s decision and the Celtics’ roster is still up in the air, but you can bet fans are watching closely to see if that special Tatum connection is strong enough to bring a former All-Star back to form.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Yahoo Sports.
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