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Photo credit: Bradley Beal Phoenix Suns

'Bradley Beal is a toxic debt' as per Eastern Conference executive

Published May 6, 2024 at 11:09
By: KEVIN BARREAU
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Kevin Barreau
May 6, 2024  (11:09)
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The Suns went 'all-in' to acquire Bradley Beal last offseason with a massive contract offer that includes a no-trade clause. They made a strong commitment to him. However, after being swept out of the first round of the playoffs this year, it was noted that Bradley Beal averaged 18.2 points per game, which is actually his lowest since the 2015-2016 campaign. Now that they have put all their eggs in one basket, aside from Durant, Booker, and Beal, they don't have much depth. An NBA executive suggested that Bradley Beal is in fact a toxic debt to the team and might prompt other players to demand a trade.

"Taking the swing to acquire him wasn't without justification," an Eastern Conference executive told Ric Bucher of Fox Sports. "But Beal is toxic debt now. You have to move on before Book and KD demand trades and you lose leverage in the market place."

According to recent reports from ESPN, the Suns have no plans to break up their Big 3 lineup for the upcoming season. Sources indicate that finding a suitable trade package would be challenging for Phoenix, considering the players' contracts. Bradley Beal, in particular, poses a challenge as his hefty $251 million contract spans three more years, making him a net-negative asset. Notably, Phoenix did not require Beal to waive his no-trade clause when he was traded from the Washington Wizards.

Currently, the Suns seem to be stuck in a middling position. While they possess enough talent to secure a playoff spot, they fall short of championship contention. Unfortunately, it appears unlikely that the organization will be able to elevate its prospects beyond this level in the near future.


Source Bleacher Report: NBA Rumors: Suns Intend to Keep Kevin Durant, Devin Booker, Bradley Beal for 2024-25
NBA Exec: Bradley Beal Is 'Toxic Debt Now' on Suns Contract After Trade amid Rumors
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