Beal exploring next team as Suns look to buyout contract

Stein on Beal’s situation with Suns:

The three-time All-Star has had an atrocious time in the Valley, struggling with injuries and on-court production. Beal hasn’t played more than 53 games in Phoenix or since 2021 with the Washington Wizards. The 6’4 guard has struggled defensively as his age, injury and lack of size has made him a target for opposing teams. The Suns recorded zero playoff wins with the Big 3 of Devin Booker, Kevin Durant and Beal, with two of three gone for next season.

Beal’s next team is up in the air. His credibility as an All-Star caliber player is in the mud and will need to work his way back up. He could return to the Eastern Conference, which is lacking with All-Star level talent, with the Milwaukee Bucks or the Boston Celtics.

The Bucks faced a similar situation with Beal, releasing Damian Lillard from a two-year, $112 million contract. Milwaukee is one of the premier teams in the East, and Beal would be the clear number two option offensively alongside former MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo.

The Celtics are likely because of Beal’s known close relationship with six-time All-Star Jayson Tatum. The duo grew up in St. Louis together, with Beal giving Tatum rides when the two were growing up. Tatum is recovering from an Achilles tear and will be out next season but will likely still be one of the top players in the league once he returns. Beal could sign a two-year deal, getting more touches in year one and then contend with Tatum in year two.

Regardless, Phoenix will be paying the All-NBA guard $22 million for the next five years to pay out his salary. A buyout would help the Suns get under the second apron and aggregate future trades and sign players for more than the minimum. Paying a player 14% of the cap for the next five years to not play on your team is not ideal but is the only option with the current CBA in place.