The Bradley Beal saga in Phoenix could be coming to an end soon. Heading into the offseason, there were various rumors about how the Suns would try and move on from one of the worst contracts in NBA history. With a trade unlikely, a potential buyout has become the probable route the franchise will take.
This week, The Athletic NBA insider Fred Katz reported a buyout is being worked on by both sides, as well as the teams on the three-time All-Star's wish list if he hits free agency in the next couple of weeks. We look at those potential landing spots and rank which teams are most likely to land the injury-prone but still talented scorer.
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The Los Angeles Clippers are reportedly looking for another budget-friendly ball handler after inking James Harden to a new contract. They have been linked to a reunion with Chris Paul , but they are reportedly the favorites to sign Beal if he becomes a free agent soon. They can offer a starting role from day one, and a deal worth just over $5.3 million. One of the more lucrative offers that Beal could get on the open market.
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The 32-year-old is unlikely to play much more than a few seasons unless he has a major career renaissance. That is why playing for a legitimate title contender next season will appeal to him. The Golden State Warriors — if healthy — will be a threat to the defending champion Oklahoma City Thunder . They can't offer much, but with Beal to be paid $19.4 million annually over the next five years from a buyout, he doesn't need a big deal.
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The Milwaukee Bucks are doing all they can to keep top star Giannis Antetokounmpo happy by adding to the roster. However, they are very limited financially. Especially after signing Myles Turner . However, the East will be wide open next season. And having, arguably, the best player in the game still in his prime gives them a chance to get to the Finals. Furthermore, Beal would likely start in Milwaukee.
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The Los Angeles Lakers can't offer much money, but they are reportedly on Bradley Beal 's wishlist. And why not? They should be a top-five team in the West next season, and have a pair of elite ball handlers who can get him the ball. However, Beal would be best if he were willing to come off the bench in Los Angeles . Would LA start him and move Austin Reaves to the bench? Or slide he youngster over to be an undersized three? Not likely, and that might be the biggest hurdle in a deal.
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Before they made a blockbuster trade for Norman Powell , the Miami Heat were rumored to actually be contemplating a trade for Beal and his awful contract. While it seems like a long shot now, the draw of playing in South Beach for what is viewed as a competent organization that wants him will appeal to Beal. Furthermore, with the East wide open next year, the Heat could be a dark horse team. If he is willing to take a very low-cost deal, the Heat have an outside chance at him.
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