Phoenix Suns head coach Mike Budenholzer has opted to have Bradley Beal and Jusuf Nurkic come off the bench in upcoming games. In light of this decision, Evan Sidery of Forbes has reported significant tensions between the Suns and Beal. Moreover, there are indications that the Suns may be pursuing a trade for Jimmy Butler following the Miami Heat’s decision to suspend him for seven games.
These events have intensified speculation regarding a potential trade involving Beal. John Gambadoro recently indicated that Beal is amenable to a trade to the Denver Nuggets, Los Angeles Lakers, or Miami Heat. However, Beal’s agent, Mark Bartelstein, has sought to clarify the situation, particularly addressing the rumors concerning waiving his no-trade clause in response to the benching.
“There have been no discussions about trades with the Suns or any other team. Bradley’s total focus is on helping the Suns turn things around.” Bartelstein said to ESPN.
Bradley Beal's agent, Mark Bartelstein, shuts down trade rumors regarding his client saying there's been no discussion of waiving his no-trade clause. Beal's focus is on helping turn around struggling Suns: https://t.co/LY66pA6Uge
— Brian Windhorst (@WindhorstESPN) January 8, 2025
Bartelstein informed ESPN that discussions about waiving the no-trade clause have not occurred. He emphasized that Beal’s primary focus is on assisting the team in overcoming its recent challenges.
Bradley Beal Shows Strong Support To Rookie Ryan Dunn
In the recent game against the Philadelphia 76ers, the Suns had Beal coming off the bench for the first time. Despite this change in role, Beal delivered an impressive performance, scoring a team-high 25 points, five assists, and three rebounds. Additionally, during the post-game interview, he expressed his support for rookie Ryan Dunn, who took his place in the starting lineup.
“He doesn’t really get to enjoy starting as a young rookie in the league. That’s big. Everybody is so caught up in my s–t and whatever is going on. I told him before the game, ‘Just lock in, just be you. Keep playing the way you’ve been playing. You ain’t doing anything wrong. Stay locked in and be you.’ I’m so proud of him.” Beal said.
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"My 1st thought process was him. He's thrown in the fire and mix of everything. He doesn't really get to enjoy starting as a young rookie in the league. That's big. Everybody is so caught up in my shit and whatever is going on." Bradley Beal on-court moment with Ryan Dunn #Suns pic.twitter.com/JyyqCkzq0j
— Duane Rankin (@DuaneRankin) January 7, 2025
The Suns defeated the 76ers 109-99 thanks to Beal’s outstanding performance. The Suns currently hold the 12th position in the Western Conference standings, with 16 wins and 19 losses. Their next game will be against the Atlanta Hawks at the Footprint Center.
Also Read: VIDEO: Bradley Beal Is “Pissed Off” After Phoenix Suns’ Fourth Straight Loss
