The Phoenix Suns have announced on social media that Bradley Beal will be benched until the end of the season. Suns beat reporter John Gambadoro discussed Beal's situation on social media: "There is indeed a tense atmosphere surrounding Beal within the Suns organization. If this is a tactic by the Suns to push Beal to give up his trade veto power, don't be surprised." The Suns' decision to bench a former All-Star player like Beal, who earns $50 million, is seen as disrespectful. Beal is unlikely to accept a lesser role and giving up his trade veto power to leave the Suns seems to be his only option.
The Suns' move to bench Beal is not only due to his poor performance but also because they are involved in Jimmy Butler's trade. According to renowned journalist Stein, the Phoenix Suns are widely considered the most interested team in trading for Butler. He wrote: "From a certain perspective, they are indeed one of Butler's ideal destinations: It is reported that Suns owner Mat Ishbia is willing to offer a lucrative new contract to the 35-year-old player, a willingness unmatched in the league."
The Suns' determination to form a 'Big Three' by dropping Beal and signing Butler has impressed Butler. According to another well-known journalist Haynes, Butler's camp has informed the Grizzlies and Bucks that he will not play for them. "As far as I know, Jimmy wants to go to Phoenix. This experienced team has several excellent players, and most importantly, the team owner may not hesitate to offer him a nine-figure renewal contract. He hopes to sign a two-year, $111 million renewal contract there to retire."
Butler's choice is not wrong. For a star player of his age, pursuing a big contract for retirement is more important than competing for championships. This could be Butler's last big contract, as his playing style, similar to Leonard's, heavily relies on physicality, with defense as the foundation. Age and injuries will inevitably accelerate his decline, as not everyone has James' incredible physical talent.
The current situation sees both the Suns and Butler showing mutual interest. While the Suns are making Beal uncomfortable, Butler is doing the same to the Heat. Although the Grizzlies hold significant assets, including first-round picks from 2025, 2027, 2028, 2029, and 2031, as well as immediate contributors like Smart, Bane, Kennard, and Clarke, and the Bucks would offer everything for their former 'Deer Slayer,' Butler has refused to join them. Butler can opt out of his contract this summer to become a free agent, and no one except the Suns dares to take him, nor can the Grizzlies and Bucks afford the supermax contract he desires.
Therefore, even if the Heat are reluctant, they will eventually have to reach a deal with the Suns, depending on what the Suns offer.