The Phoenix Suns have sparked conversations in the NBA, not just for their reported interest in Miami Heat star Jimmy Butler but also for significant changes to their starting lineup. The team decided to remove Bradley Beal and Jusuf Nurkic from the starting lineup. Instead, they opted for rookie Ryan Dunn and veteran Mason Plumlee to step into starting roles.
Bradley Beal recently addressed his role off the bench and the ongoing trade rumors surrounding Butler. When asked about his future with the team, Beal referenced the no-trade clause in his contract, stating his control over any potential moves.
“If so I need to be addressed, because I hold the cards. Until I’m addressed and somebody says something different, then I’ll be a Sun,” Beal said.
"If so, I need to be addressed because I hold the cards. Until I'm addressed and somebody says something different, then I'll be a Sun."
— Duane Rankin (@DuaneRankin) January 7, 2025
Bradley Beal on if coming off bench is related to bigger picture as far as NBA trade talks.
Has no-trade clause in his contract. #Suns pic.twitter.com/f54au9MWFS
However, NBA insider John Gambadoro revealed that Beal is open to waiving his no-trade clause for a move to the Lakers, Heat, or Nuggets. Meanwhile, Suns head coach Mike Budenholzer explained the decision to bench Beal, stating it was not a reflection of Beal’s performance but an attempt to address the team’s recent four-game losing streak.
Bradley Beal Responds To Surprise Benching With Stellar Performance Against 76ers
Phoenix Suns star Bradley Beal recently shared his thoughts on being moved to the bench. He admitted the decision caught him off guard. Beal also revealed he wasn’t given any prior indication about the change but expressed his willingness to adapt.
“It was a little difficult, I’m not gonna lie, I don’t know. But when the coach made his decision, I’m good with it. I’m gonna do something good. But coach made his decision. I’m not gonna sit here and argue with him. I’m not gonna see him be a distraction,” Beal said.
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Despite the surprise, Beal made a strong statement with his performance. Coming off the bench, he led the team in scoring, putting up 25 points, 5 assists, and shooting 10-15 from the field in the Suns’ 109-99 victory over the 76ers.
Also Read: REPORT: Everything Is Not Well Between Phoenix Suns And Bradley Beal As Tensions Flare Among Them