The realization of the Phoenix Suns mobilizing into a deeper powerhouse has solidified on Sunday. The Suns have acquired Bradley Beal in a whirlwind trade from the Washington Wizards.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!Unlike most stars of today’s league, however, Beal’s current deal included a no-trade clause. With that, Beal was the final decision-maker in where he chose to play for possibly the last stand of his career.
According to The Athletic’s Shams Charania, Beal chose the Suns over other destinations, namely the Miami Heat and Milwaukee Bucks. The Sacramento Kings were candidates for the three-time All-Star early on.
The no-trade clause in Bradley Beal's contract ultimately allowed him to choose his next destination.
Beal picked the Suns over multiple other trade options, including Miami, Milwaukee and Sacramento, sources tell @ShamsCharania.
More on the blockbuster: https://t.co/usaZ5ANPtz
— The Athletic (@TheAthletic) June 18, 2023
Beal finished last season averaging 23.2 points along with 5.4 assists per game. He shot 50 percent from the field on 17.6 attempts per game.
Not only does Beal add another scoring dynamic for the Suns, he also brings his playmaking. Devin Booker took an evident step towards being a solidified facilitator last season also.
Adding Beal to that backcourt — even without an official point guard, makes for one of the most difficult duos in the league.
Beal also adds insurance partially to the unforeseeable injury hurdles that await Durant at any moment. Durant missed a decent amount of time during his first, short year in Phoenix.
As for the price to obtain Beal, the Suns didn’t hand over anyone they weren’t prepared to lose. Phoenix had already made Chris Paul aware that they would be potentially waiving or trading him, making his time remaining with the Suns inevitable.
The Suns also traded guard Landry Shamet, second round picks and pick swaps. Shamet’s $10.2 million next season served as necessary salary filler.
Still, it’s no secret as to what Paul did for the Suns franchise. His arrival and mentoring of Booker helped turn the franchise around, affording them a Finals appearance in 2021.
Now, the question becomes what routes the Suns will take to fill out a practically empty roster. As it stands, they have very little wiggle room with Deandre Ayton still on the roster.
