The Phoenix Suns have three major stars: Devin Booker, Kevin Durant, and Bradley Beal, who collectively account for over $150 million in salary next season. This financial burden restricts the Suns from making significant roster changes without parting with one of these stars.
The team’s current roster has placed them into the NBA’s second apron, severely limiting their ability to make desired moves. Booker is untouchable, and despite trade options for Durant, he remains with the team. Beal, protected by a no-trade clause, is also staying, and his contract has been deemed one of the worst in the NBA over the past five years by Bleacher Report. Beal’s contract, starting in 2024-25, leaves $160 million remaining over five years from his original $251 million deal with the Washington Wizards.
Beal’s first season with the Suns was marred by injuries, limiting him to 53 games. His recurring health issues are a concern, especially since he had been consistently healthy from 2017-2019. Now 30, Beal is unlikely to return to All-Star form. While the Suns don’t need him to be an All-Star, his performance during crucial moments, such as a humiliating sweep by the Minnesota Timberwolves, was disappointing.
Despite some positive performances when healthy, Beal’s contract makes him poor value for money. The Suns also lacked an established point guard, which didn’t help his situation. Bleacher Report sees a bleak future for the Suns with Beal, as his contract is a significant obstacle. With his cap hits exceeding $50 million annually, Beal is almost impossible to trade. He waived his no-trade clause to join the more competitive Suns, but if the team doesn’t excel soon, Beal is unlikely to play at an All-NBA level and won’t be attractive on the trade market at his current salary.
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