The Phoenix Suns are reportedly poised to part ways with All-Star guard Bradley Beal this week, with the two sides negotiating a buyout. Once he hits NBA free agency, two suitors in the Eastern Conference could be battling for him.
Barry Jackson of the Miami Herald said that with the Suns set to buy out Beal, the Miami Heat have emerged as a top landing spot. However, he also noted that the Milwaukee Bucks are a team in the mix as they try to “appease Giannis” and they could be more desperate than other suitors.
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Bradley Beal stats (ESPN): 17 PPG, 3.7 APG, 3.3 RPG, 1.1 SPG, 49.7% FG, 38.6% 3PT
While Beal might no longer be an All-Star caliber player heading into his age-32 season, he remains a very effective scorer. He’s averaged nearly 2 three-pointers made per game over the last two seasons and has shot 50.5 percent from the field in his last 106 games.
The 6-foot-4 shooting guard remains a steady shooter from the corners, having made 42.5 percent of his corner threes over the last two seasons. With Milwaukee and Miami both thin at guard, Beal would be an important role player next season for either team.
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The Los Angeles Clippers are also expected to pursue Beal once he officially hits NBA free agency, as the franchise has had a long-standing interest in him. Los Angeles and Miami both offer far more appealing places to play than Milwaukee, but it’s possible the Bucks’ desperation for a guard helps result in them making a stronger offer.
NFL, MLB & college football writer for Sportsnaut. Graduated from San Diego State University with BA in Journalism, 2019. ... More about Matt Johnson