The NBA free agency period has seen several big-name players become available, and Bradley Beal is next on the list. The Phoenix Suns are rumored to be buying out Beal’s contract, which would make him an unrestricted free agent. Beal’s future is uncertain, but here are five possible landing spots for him.
Beal joins the Los Angeles Lakers as a potential scoring punch off the bench. With LeBron James and Luka Doncic on the roster, the Lakers could contend against most teams with Beal’s addition. However, the team already struggles with perimeter defense, which could be exacerbated by Beal’s presence.
The Clippers are also linked to Beal, but they make more sense due to their recent transaction that shipped out Norman Powell and brought in John Collins. Beal would fill a crucial role as a shooter and ballhandler for the team, particularly with James Harden and Kawhi Leonard on board.
In Milwaukee, Beal could take on a larger role if he’s looking for a starting spot. With Damian Lillard waived due to injury, the Bucks need someone to hold down the fort when Giannis Antetokounmpo needs rest. Beal would be leaned upon to produce offensively and might have to play more point guard than the team prefers.
The Timberwolves offer Beal his best chance at contention among the four teams linked to him. With a mix of good-to-great defenders in Anthony Edwards, Julius Randle, Rudy Gobert, and Jaden McDaniels, Beal’s defensive weaknesses wouldn’t be as pronounced. However, it ultimately depends on whether he prioritizes a role or a championship.
The Boston Celtics are the wild card option, with Beal being close with Jayson Tatum. The team lacks interest in paying Beal due to financial constraints and is instead eyeing Lillard. Despite this, keeping Tatum happy might lead the Celtics to offer Beal a significant role on the roster.
Source: https://www.si.com/nba/bradley-beal-destinations-lakers-clippers-celtics