Bradley Beal: Nets trade rumors 'a sign of respect'

Trade rumors surrounding Washington Wizards guard Bradley Beal still won't stop, even during the coronavirus pandemic.

The Brooklyn Nets have reportedly shown interest in the 26-year-old, according to the New York Daily News, and while Beal isn't worried about a potential trade, he feels it's a sign that he's been proving his worth.

"It's not the first time I've heard this kind of talk," Beal told ESPN's Jackie MacMullan. "It's interesting. To me, I look at it as a sign of respect, that I've been doing good things and guys want to play with me.

"That's an unbelievable feeling. When you hear that Kyrie [Irving] and KD [Kevin Durant] want you, s---, that's amazing. At the same time, you don't know how much there is to it, or how easy it would be to do. And I've put down roots in D.C. I've dedicated myself to this town, this community. I love it here, and it would feel great to know I could grind out winning here instead of jumping to another team."

The Nets' internal discussions surrounding a trade for Beal are strictly exploratory at this point, but adding him to their roster would boost their chances of sitting atop the Eastern Conference in 2021. 

It's no surprise they covet the two-time All-Star, who is having the best offensive season of his career, averaging 30 points and six assists while John Wall sat on the sidelines recovering from an Achilles tendon injury. 

While Beal is flattered by the reported trade discussions, he noted that he loves playing in Washington and has "dedicated" himself to the town and community. He's under contract with the Wizards through the 2021-22 season, and while things could change, the Wizards don't necessarily have to engage in trade talks with anyone regarding their top shooting guard.