The Washington Wizards are considering a rebuild under a new front office, sparking NBA trade rumors regarding Bradley Beal. While multiple teams are interested in the All-Star guard, one is widely viewed as the favorite to acquire him.
Beal, entering his age-30 season, has complete control over the situation. As part of his five-year contract extension signed in 2022, he received both a no-trade clause and a 15 percent trade kicker. It makes him one of the highest-paid NBA players and allows him to pick his next team.
- Bradley Beal contract: $46.74 million salary (2023-’24), $50.2M salary (2024-’25), $53.66M salary (2025-’26), $57.128 million player option (2026-’27)
Related: NBA reporter hints at likely return in a Bradley Beal trade
The Sacramento Kings, Miami Heat and New York Knicks have already been connected with interest in Beal and other suitors are expected to get involved. However, Beal’s no-trade clause and specific preferences have led to one team being viewed as the clear front-runner.
According to NBA insider Marc Stein, Miami is “widely regarded” as the favorite to acquire Beal if the All-Star guard asks Washington to trade him this summer. The Heat are aided by the fact that they are one of the teams Beal has an interest in.
- Bradley Beal stats (2022-’23): 23.2 PPG, 5.4 APG, 50.6% FG, 36.5% 3PT, .099 WS.48
Related: New York Knicks showing interest in Bradley Beal
After losing in the NBA Finals for the second time in four years, Miami is aggressively exploring options to upgrade its starting lineup. In addition to Beal, the Heat have been connected to Damian Lillard and Kyrie Irving.
Beal has remained committed to the Wizards for years, but the new front office’s openness to a rebuild has opened the door to a trade. While the NBA star’s contract will limit the number of suitors involved, Beal’s scoring ability makes him an attractive option to championship contenders looking for a piece to put them over the top.
