July 6 EST: Bradley Beal is on the brink of becoming the most high-profile free agent of the summer—again. Multiple league insiders now expect the Phoenix Suns to finalize a buyout agreement with the veteran guard within the next 24 to 48 hours, potentially ending a short and underwhelming tenure in the desert.
John Gambadoro, a plugged-in voice in Phoenix basketball circles, dropped the most pointed update yet: “I expect a decision and resolution on Bradley Beal’s situation in the next 24‑48 hours.”
That window closes fast. And the stakes—both financial and competitive—are massive.
The Dollars Behind the Decision
Beal’s current contract is a monster: $110.8 million still owed through 2026–27, tied together by one of the league’s few remaining no-trade clauses. It’s a deal that no longer fits Phoenix’s ambitions, especially after their blockbuster deal to land Kevin Durant last month. That move signaled a shift—and left Beal looking like an expensive redundancy.
To facilitate a buyout, Beal would have to give up at least $13.8 million of his remaining salary. That specific figure isn’t arbitrary—it’s the minimum Phoenix would need him to forgo to stretch the rest of his deal over five years and dodge the NBA’s second tax apron, unlocking tools like the Mid-Level Exception and granting cap flexibility they currently don’t have.
According to ESPN’s Bobby Marks, the numbers speak loudly: “Phoenix needs this buyout to maintain control of its cap sheet. Stretching the salary only works if Beal voluntarily walks away from real money.”
Beal’s On-Court Value Has Faded—but Not Erased
While Beal’s name still carries weight, his output in Phoenix hasn’t lived up to the contract. He’s averaged just under 17 points per game across two injury-limited seasons—playing only 53 games each year and failing to hit the 60-game mark since 2021. He hasn’t been bad, but he hasn’t been impactful either, often stuck between roles in a Suns offense led by Devin Booker and now Durant.
Still, the league knows what Beal is capable of. In the right situation—off-ball, healthy, and surrounded by spacing—he’s a three-level scorer with veteran savvy and deep playoff experience. That’s why the suitors are circling.
Where Could Beal Land?
The list isn’t long, but it’s loaded.
The Milwaukee Bucks have emerged as a serious option, especially in the wake of the Damian Lillard trade that gutted their backcourt depth. Miami, perennial hunters for scoring guards, could re-enter the Beal chase after falling short on Donovan Mitchell. And don’t sleep on the Los Angeles Clippers, who may lose Paul George and are hunting for offensive insurance.
Phoenix has no leverage here—Beal’s no-trade clause still applies even in theoretical trade-back scenarios—but the buyout opens up the landscape. Once he clears waivers, he’s free to sign anywhere.
What Comes Next
The Suns, sources say, are in final stages of negotiation. Beal’s camp is reportedly aligned with the direction of the buyout, but the financial details—specifically how much salary he’s willing to walk away from—will determine how fast the paperwork gets done.
There is no indication Phoenix will opt for an outright waive. That route would cost the franchise far more in short-term tax obligations and deliver zero relief. The buyout is the compromise both sides need.
Meanwhile, the NBA waits. Other teams are holding roster space, adjusting MLE strategies, and watching Phoenix like hawks.
Beal’s next chapter is coming. Whether it unfolds in Milwaukee, Miami, or Los Angeles, his exit from Phoenix looks all but sealed. The only question is how much he’s willing to leave behind to get there.
New Jersey Times Is Your Source: The Latest In Politics, Entertainment, Business, Breaking News, And Other News. Please Follow Us On Facebook, Instagram, And Twitter To Receive Instantaneous Updates. Also Do Checkout Our Telegram Channel @Njtdotcom For Latest Updates.
A former college-level cricketer and lifelong sports enthusiast, Arun Upadhayay brings the heart of an athlete to the sharp eye of a journalist. With firsthand experience in competitive sports and a deep understanding of team dynamics, Arun covers everything from grassroots tournaments to high-stakes international showdowns. His reporting blends field-level grit with analytical precision, making him a trusted voice for sports fans across New Jersey and beyond.
- Arun Upadhayay
- Arun Upadhayay
- Arun Upadhayay
- Arun Upadhayay
- Arun Upadhayay
- Arun Upadhayay
- Arun Upadhayay
- Arun Upadhayay
- Arun Upadhayay
- Arun Upadhayay
- Arun Upadhayay
- Arun Upadhayay
- Arun Upadhayay
