PHOENIX – One of the biggest shocks this NBA offseason, was the Milwaukee Bucks waiving nine-time All-Star Damian Lillard to sign Myles Turner. After tearing his Achilles in the first round of last year’s postseason, Lillard was expected to recover and comeback near the playoffs. However, general manager Jon Horst had other plans, waiving Lillard’s $112.5 million salary of the next two seasons, which is what the Phoenix Suns have been pondering with guard Bradley Beal.
Apr 9, 2025; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Phoenix Suns guard Bradley Beal (3) reacts against the Oklahoma City Thunderduring the first half at Footprint Center. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
Should the Suns copy the Bucks and waive Beal?
Beal has $110.7 million remaining in the final two seasons of his contract. As Phoenix battles against the second apron, the front office has tried close to everything to get off Beal’s salary. The three-time All-Star’s no-trade clause and depleted value has made that impossible, with soon waiving him being the only option left.
The Bucks will be paying Lillard $22.5 million over the next five years, while if the Suns do waive Beal, it would be $22.1 million. However, Beal’s cap hit would go from 34.7% of the cap to 14.7% for the 2025-2026 season. It would help Phoenix in the short term to get under the second apron and be able to rebuild via trades or signings.
Apr 8, 2025; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Phoenix Suns guard Bradley Beal (3) reacts during the first half against the Golden State Warriors at Footprint Center. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
Paying Beal over $20 million for the next five years to not be on the roster will be a hard pill to swallow for the organization. However, with no looming trade in sight, the front office might need to be creative and follow suit with what the Bucks did with Lillard.
Suns and Lakers have had trade talks surrounding last year’s starting center
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Reporter Tanner Tortorella covers general assignment for Burn City Sports. You can follow him on his X account, @TannerTSports
