Ron Chenoy-Imagn Images

Kevin Durant Gives Verdict About Bradley Beal’s Bench Role For Phoenix Suns

Originally posted on Athlon Sports
By Nathaniel Holloway | Last updated Jan 11, 2025 9:00 AM ET

The Phoenix Suns shocked the NBA earlier in the week when they decided to move Bradley Beal to the bench, but it has worked out for them thus far.

In his new role, Beal is averaging 20 points per game off the bench. The Suns’ new-look lineup has also gone 2-1 with Beal being a major contributor off the bench.

While some believed that with the Suns moving Beal to the bench was a way for them to upset him enough for him to waive his no-trade clause, it has actually helped them. Beal did not fit well in the starting lineup next to Kevin Durant and Devin Booker and he has thrived in his new role.

Durant was recently asked about Beal’s new role where he gave a very decisive answer.

“Is it really a change,” Durant said. “You're still playing a lot of minutes, getting his shots up. Last 3 games, I just feel like he's more comfortable and understands where his shots are going to come from."

Durant’s answer to the question was not wrong as Beal has thrived in his new role in the Suns’ rotation. He is still receiving a ton of minutes every game and has been able to run the second unit, allowing him to be more aggressive offensively.

With Durant’s recent comments and with the Suns’ recent success, they may now look to keep their big three around. Phoenix has been trying to land Jimmy Butler from the Miami Heat, but trade talks have come to a halt due to Beal’s no-trade clause and the Heat not wanting to take back his salary in a trade.

Because of this, it may be easier and wiser for the Suns to let this season play out with their star trio intact and see if it works out. If it ends up not working, then they can try to break things up in the offseason.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

More must-reads: