The Phoenix Suns’ attempt to integrate Bradley Beal into their roster has not gone as planned, ending with disappointing results this season. After finishing 36-46, the Suns witnessed Beal deliver some of the weakests stats of his career, averaging just 17 points, 3.3 assists, and 3.7 rebounds per game. The fallout included the dismissal of coach Mike Budenholzer and the recent trade of Kevin Durant to the Houston Rockets, signaling a major shakeup in Phoenix’s lineup.
Stephen A. Smith Reveals Suns’ Intentions Regarding Beal
On a recent episode of The Stephen A. Smith Show, the analyst highlighted the Suns’ urgent plans for the summer, clearly stating that the franchise wants to part ways with Beal. Smith was unequivocal: the priority is to move Beal out of Phoenix.
“You [have] got to prioritize getting rid of Bradley Beal,” —Stephen A. Smith, Analyst
He further elaborated on Beal’s unique position in the league due to his no-trade clause, shared only with LeBron James, and how the Suns are desperate to work around this obstacle.
“Him and LeBron James are the only two people in the entire league who have a no-trade clause, and Phoenix wants him gone in the worst way,” —Stephen A. Smith, Analyst
Trade Blockage Could Lead to Benching or Paying Beal to Stay Home
Smith disclosed information from his sources that if the Suns cannot find a trade partner willing to take on Beal’s hefty contract, the team might bench him entirely or pay him to remain away from the active roster, a severe measure that underscores their disinterest.
“I’m being told that if they can’t get rid of him, they might sit his ass down or pay him to stay home,” —Stephen A. Smith, Analyst
This approach signals Phoenix’s readiness to absorb financial losses just to clear their roster, reflecting deeper issues beyond Beal’s on-court performance. Smith noted the broader implications for Beal’s reputation within the franchise.
“They don’t want Bradley Beal on the Phoenix Suns any longer,” —Stephen A. Smith, Analyst
“And if you’re Bradley Beal, you’ve got to think about how good that looks for you or how bad that looks for you.” —Stephen A. Smith, Analyst
Beal’s Declining Value and Contract Stifle Potential Trades
Beal’s market value has dramatically dropped, largely due to his underwhelming season and an expensive contract, which discourages interested teams. Smith criticized the situation sharply, questioning Beal’s standing given Phoenix’s unwillingness to retain him while paying over $50 million.
“They are paying you over 50 million. They don’t want you, and they can’t give you away for a box of cookies. What the hell is going on? What are you doing that they got them questioning that about you?” —Stephen A. Smith, Analyst
Beyond basketball statistics, Smith raised concerns about Beal’s professionalism and presence hindering the Suns’ flexibility, which may contribute to the franchise’s urgency to move him.
Suns Poised to Override Beal’s No-Trade Clause Amid Deteriorating Situation
According to Smith, Beal has allegedly blocked multiple trade attempts this season by using his no-trade clause, frustrating the Suns’ efforts to reshape their roster. Now, the team might respond by limiting Beal’s role themselves, potentially sidelining him if a trade remains unfeasible.
This predicament draws an unsettling comparison to former Wizards teammate John Wall’s rapid fall from grace, with Beal’s situation appearing similarly precarious.
The Suns’ determination to remove Beal contrasts sharply with ongoing league inaction, as Smith warns the signs point toward a bleak outlook for Beal’s future in Phoenix and possibly the NBA altogether.