Miami Heat Eye Bradley Beal as Suns Consider Buyout Options

Miami, USA - Bradley Beal’s tenure with the Phoenix Suns seems to be heading for a rocky conclusion. After two underwhelming seasons, there are reports swirling about a potential buyout for the former standout shooting guard. The Suns, as per Sports Illustrated, are considering this route to part ways with Beal, who has struggled to make a significant impact since joining the franchise.

Beal’s statistics from the 2024-25 season tell part of the story. He averaged 17.0 points, 3.3 rebounds, 3.7 assists, and 1.1 steals per game, shooting an impressive 49.7% from the field and 38.6% from beyond the arc over 53 games. However, his health has been a concern, with Beal only managing to play 53 games in each of his two seasons with the Suns. He hasn’t played 60 games in a season since before the pandemic during the 2020-21 season.

Miami Heat’s Interest in Beal

The Miami Heat are reportedly keeping a keen eye on Beal’s situation. If he becomes a free agent, Miami is keen on signing him, according to reports by Marc Stein and Jake Fischer. Given Beal’s proven ability, the Heat could see him as a pivotal addition to strengthen their roster.

On the other hand, the Suns are navigating tricky waters with Beal’s contract. He has two years remaining, totaling roughly $110.8 million, which complicates any buyout discussions. Forbes notes that while a buyout could free up space, waiving and stretching Beal’s contract poses significant challenges due to salary cap limitations. The Suns previously attempted to trade Beal but faced roadblocks due to his no-trade clause, leaving the buyout as one of their few options.

The Trade Dilemma

Adding to the complexity is Beal’s recent history with the Suns. Acquired during the 2023 offseason as part of a trade that sent Chris Paul to the Wizards, expectations were high to create a potent trio alongside Devin Booker and Kevin Durant. However, the results have been disappointing, with the Suns finishing with a 45-33 record in games played by the big three, and only 19-18 in the past season.

To make matters worse, the Suns have already incurred dead salary from previous player waivers, further tightening their options with Beal’s hefty contract. It’s understood that Beal would prefer to remain in Phoenix, having relocated his family to the city, making a potential move even more complicated. Free Press reports that discussions are ongoing about how a buyout might be structured, with potential considerations to stretch the cap hit over multiple years.

As it stands, teams can start signing free agents on July 6, and with Beal’s future hanging in the balance, all eyes will be on Phoenix. Will they choose the buyout route? Or will the Miami Heat swoop in before he ends up on the market? As the clock ticks down, fans are left wondering what this means for both Beal and the Suns‘ aspirations.