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Bradley Beal
The 2023-24 season did not go as planned for the Phoenix Suns. They stand at 39-29, which ties them to Dallas Mavericks for the No. 7 seed in the Western Conference standings. If they don’t meet expectations, Bleacher Report’s Greg Swartz explained why the Suns should look into trading Bradley Beal.
Swartz explained why Beal didn’t really play in the Suns’ favor in a story from March 18.
“The trade for Bradley Beal was questionable at the time, given the 30-year-old’s contract. Injuries have limited the veteran guard to just 37 games this season, only confirming that this trade was a mistake.
Swartz then explained how much better the Suns are without him and what they should look to get in exchange for him.
“Beal became a vastly overpaid third option, with Phoenix actually improving by 2.6 points per 100 possessions with him on the bench.
“If the Suns can find a trade that makes sense for everyone (Beal still has a no-trade clause), they should do it. Even getting quality players (point guard, defensive end) back to surround Booker and Durant and ending Beal’s huge contract would be worth it.
Trading Beal could be a problem for Phoenix. He has three years left of $215 million contract over five years with a no-trade clause. Not only would they have to find a suitor, but Beal would also have to agree to a trade.
Bradley Beal on playing more point guard
Beal spoke with NBA.com’s Shaun Powell, where he detailed what it’s been like adjusting to Phoenix. Since trading Chris Paul for Beal, they no longer have a traditional point guard on the roster. Therefore, they tasked Beal with point guard responsibilities.
Beal spoke about what it was like to take on this particular role in a History of February 22.
“In this situation, I have to make sure everyone gets a share of the ball. I have to make some touches to the big guy (Jusuf Nurkic). We have a really versatile group. The most important thing is that everyone is involved. There is no such thing as selfish play. And it’s because of KD and Book. They are extremely altruistic. As the season goes on, I think we do a good job of finding shots for everyone.
Beal averages 4.8 assists per game, which ranks third on the team behind Kevin Durant and Devin Booker. by NBA.com. The Suns emphasized that all three were primary point guards, even though none of them fit the traditional point guard role.
Bradley Beal reflects on playing with the Wizards
The Suns are Beal’s second NBA team. Before that, he spent his first 11 years with the Wizards. Beal told Powell what he missed playing in Washington.
“It’s a lot. I miss the gym. A fun arena to be in. One of the best crowds in the NBA. Just the feeling, the connection you have with the people in DC. It’s a lot. is a special place. That’s where I was drafted, been there 11 years. It made it harder to leave. I was blessed. Made an impact both on and off the floor . I gave a little love and received a lot of love in return. No complaints.”
Matt John covers the Boston Celtics and Phoenix Suns for Heavy.com. A Massachusetts native, he has covered the NBA since 2018, with stops at FanSided, Basketball News and Basketball Insiders. Learn more about Matt John
