Suns Make Feelings Clear to Bradley Beal Amid Kevin Durant Exit Rumors

These days, Beal is better known for his onerous contract than for his production on the hardwood. After averaging 17 points per game and losing his starting spot this season, Beal is set to make nearly $54 million in 2025-26. Moreover, the three-time All-Star's total no-trade clause gives him complete control over his future irrespective of the Suns' desires.

It is against this backdrop that Phoenix will hang on to Beal next season – and hope that the 31-year-old can rediscover that magic touch in 2020-21 as a member of the Washington Wizards.

"There is likewise some hope within the Suns that moving Durant could possibly present Beal with more offensive opportunity to produce in a manner you'd expect from a player with that sort of contract," wrote The Stein Line's Jake Fischer. "Various candidates considered during the Suns' recent coaching search were asked how they would try to get the best out of Beal if he remained a Sun.” 

This is now Ott's challenge as the Suns move on to their third head coach in as many seasons: construct an offense that maximizes Beal and Booker and helps Phoenix contend in the daunting Western Conference.