The Phoenix Suns have been discussing a possible buyout for guard Bradley Beal, according to league sources who informed The Arizona Republic. Beal has two years remaining on his contract totaling $110 million, and a buyout would make him a free agent. The three-time All-Star is on a five-year, $251 million deal that includes a no-trade clause signed with the Washington Wizards.
Phoenix is more than $10 million over the second tax apron and needs cap relief. The Suns could reduce Beal’s salary and stretch it over five years to manage their cap hit as they work toward compliance.
For example, a $90 million buyout stretched over five years would create an $18 million annual cap hit. The lesser the buyout amount, the more salary cap flexibility Phoenix would retain.
Phoenix traded Kevin Durant to the Houston Rockets before the 2025 NBA Draft in a blockbuster deal. The Suns acquired Jalen Green, Dillon Brooks, the 10th overall pick, and five second-round selections in the trade, which becomes official July 6.
The Suns currently have a salary cap hit of $3.8 million, consisting of Nassir Little’s $3.1 million and E.J. Liddell’s $706,898.
Beal averaged 17.6 points on 50.5% shooting, 4.3 assists and 3.9 rebounds in two seasons with Phoenix. Despite shooting 40.7% from three-point range, he has struggled with injuries, playing only 53 games in each season.
The guard hasn’t played at least 60 games since the 2020-21 season. Phoenix acquired Beal in a 2023 trade that sent Chris Paul to Washington, creating a Big 3 with Devin Booker and Durant that failed to meet championship expectations.