The Phoenix Suns have a limited set of trade options available to them as a team over the second apron, but they have been one of the NBA’s more active teams in scouring the market. The Suns and Jimmy Butler have mutual interest, but any deal would require them trading out Bradley Beal. Beal has a no-trade clause and two extra seasons remaining on his contract after this one.
“They have not-so-secretly been looking to find a new home for Beal in a way that could also land them Jimmy Butler,” writes Brian Windhorst.
Windhorst expounded on the situation during a Tuesday appearance on First Take.
“They absolutely are trying to trade Bradley Beal,” said Windhorst.
Because the Heat have no interest in taking back Beal in a Butler trade, the Suns would need to find a third team to take on Beal. Beal would have to approve his next destination due to his no trade clause. Though not mentioned in Windhorst’s story, the Suns employ Josh Bartelstein as CEO, who is the son of Beal’s agent Mark Bartelstein. The unique relationship between team and agent could help facilitate a deal similar to how the Suns acquired him initially in 2023.
Butler has interest in the Suns as a potential title contender and they could also be the team most willing to extend him at the type of amount he is looking for on his next contract.
The Suns have a 2031 first round pick available to trade as well as three second rounders.
“They are basically trying to make him feel unwelcome in Phoenix so he waives his no trade clause,” added Windhorst.