There’s nothing any NBA franchise wants the public to know less than their locker room having issues with how the team is being run. Unfortunately for the Phoenix Suns, the issues surrounding their struggles for the 2024-25 season are exposed for the world to see.
While there are multiple issues Phoenix must address, the biggest talking point throughout the league was Bradley Beal’s benching and potential trade. Since they moved for the former Washington Wizards star as the third star allongside Kevin Durant and Devin Booker.
As fans throughout the association share their thoughts on the matter and analysts speculate on where he will end up, the man himself at the center of the issue discussed his honest thoughts about the rumors surrounding his future in Phoenix.
Beal will focus on playing with the Suns as trade rumors persist
Azcentral’s Duane Rankin was among the media who interviewed Beal after putting up a strong performance against the Philadelphia 76ers off the bench. The Florida standout was the best performer in Phoenix’s 109-99 victory at the Wells Fargo Center.
“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.”
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
— Duane Rankin (@DuaneRankin) January 7, 2025
Beal making that statement after putting up an impressive 25 points, three rebounds, three assists, one steal, and one block in 29 minutes of play off the bench might be a sign of protest to how Mike Budenholzer is running the team.
However, it’s understandable why the coaching staff felt the need to make such a drastic change. Beal was averaging far below the averages expected out of a player paid $50 million a year. While they might find it difficult to find a suitable trade partner for his contract, it would be nice if Beal continues this string of performances to push Phoenix to an unlikely sixth seed.
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