Is Bradley Beal the problem for the Suns?

With Beal sidelined due to injury, the Suns have surged to a four-game winning streak, improving their record to a staggering 13-3 when Kevin Durant and Devin Booker play without him. The evidence is becoming hard to ignore: Phoenix has found success by building around their superstar duo with defensive-minded, high-effort players rather than adding another ball-dominant scorer according to NBA insider Evan Sidery.

Sidery also noted the trend, highlighting how the Suns have looked their best when they lean into defensive versatility and off-ball movement. Rookie Ryan Dunn has played a major role in that transformation, stepping up in Beal’s absence and solidifying himself in the rotation. The Suns are 5-1 since reinserting Dunn with more minutes, and the numbers back up his impact. When Dunn shares the floor with Booker and Durant, Phoenix outscores opponents by 6.8 points per 100 possessions.

Beal, acquired in the offseason to form a star trio, was expected to be the missing piece for a championship push. Instead, his presence has often disrupted the rhythm of an offense that functions more smoothly when Booker and Durant have space to operate. With a winning percentage of 81% without Beal, the Suns face a growing question: Is he actually the problem?

Fans seem to think so. Many have taken to social media suggesting Phoenix should explore trading Beal, believing the team’s identity is stronger without him. And with no urgency to rush him back, the Suns may be realizing that their best path forward could involve a different “Big Three”—one led by Booker, Durant, and the emerging rookie, Dunn.

For now, Phoenix keeps rolling, proving they can thrive without Beal in the lineup. His fit with this team has never been more uncertain, but the Suns remain focused on what’s working. With momentum on their side, they’ll look to carry this success into their next challenge against the Boston Celtics, aiming to keep their hot streak alive.