The Phoenix Suns and Bradley Beal are closing in on a deal that would make him an unrestricted free agent, according to league sources. The move would allow the Suns to negotiate a buyout, waive Beal, and then stretch his remaining salary over five years, reducing their annual cap hit.
However, the Suns face a challenge: Beal needs to give back at least $13.8 million for them to stretch his contract. This amount is based on the collective bargaining agreement’s quirk that requires players to surrender some of their guaranteed money to be stretched.
Beal has been linked to several teams, including the LA Clippers, Golden State Warriors, Los Angeles Lakers, and Milwaukee Bucks. However, he may find it difficult to secure a two-year contract worth $13.8 million on the open market. The Clippers have only $5.3 million left of their midlevel exception, which they would need to offer Beal.
The Suns’ goal is to avoid being taxed on the luxury tax, with a threshold set at $207.8 million for 2025-26. They are exploring alternative options, including trading players without taking on salary, but this would still leave them above the tax.
Beal’s situation raises questions about the Suns’ future, as they have already traded away Kevin Durant and Devin Booker in an attempt to build a big three. If Beal leaves, it could be the final piece of the puzzle falling into place for the team to rebuild.
Source: https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6478558/2025/07/07/bradley-beal-buyout-suns-nba