With Beal nearing a buyout agreement that would allow him to reach the unrestricted market, All-NBA point man James Harden became “the key voice” in the Clippers’ pursuit of the soon-to-be-former Suns guard, according to ESPN’s Brian Windhorst, working both L.A.’s front office and Beal himself to play matchmaker and consummate the deal:

Bradley Beal chose the Los Angeles Clippers as his new NBA team, and James Harden may have played a role in that decision.

Several key figures within the Los Angeles Clippers organization reportedly played a role in the recruitment of Bradley Beal this week.

According to NBA Insider Brett Seigel, Bradley Beal refused to join the Lakers despite extensive conversation between his representation and the team.