Bradley Beal’s five-year, $251 million contract with the Phoenix Suns represents one of the NBA’s most challenging trade scenarios. The deal includes a no-trade clause, giving the veteran guard complete control over his destination. With Phoenix looking to move on from the 31-year-old after trading Kevin Durant, Beal must approve any potential deal.
5 Trade Destinations for Bradley Beal
The Suns find themselves in a period of transition, having gotten younger through the draft and recent trades. However, moving Beal presents a unique challenge since he holds all the leverage in potential negotiations.
Bradley Beal reportedly wants to remain in Phoenix but could be open to a trade to the right destination, per @FredKatz
“Phoenix could try to trade Beal, as it did this past season, but his no-trade clause remains. The same that was true before the 2025 trade deadline is the… pic.twitter.com/FHL9vJAepz
— NBACentral (@TheDunkCentral) June 28, 2025
Here are five teams that could entice Beal to waive his no-trade clause and facilitate a deal.
Miami Heat
The Miami Heat reportedly appeared on Beal’s preferred destination list before his 2023 trade to Phoenix, but the franchise deemed his no-trade clause too significant an obstacle at the time. The Heat’s circumstances have changed dramatically since then.
Jimmy Butler‘s departure to the Golden State Warriors has shifted Miami’s roster dynamics considerably. Tyler Herro now handles primary ball-handling duties alongside big man Bam Adebayo, but the team lacks consistent scoring depth. Their first-round playoff sweep by the Cleveland Cavaliers highlighted this deficiency.
Adding Beal would provide the scoring punch Miami has sought for multiple seasons. The Heat also possess several young prospects who could appeal to Phoenix in any potential deal, making this a logical fit for both sides.
Washington Wizards
A return to the Washington Wizards presents an intriguing possibility for Beal, who spent his first 11 NBA seasons with the franchise before being traded on amicable terms. The Wizards possess the salary cap flexibility to make a deal work through contracts like Khris Middleton and Marcus Smart.
While Washington isn’t positioned for immediate playoff contention, both Middleton and Smart have served valuable mentorship roles for the team’s young talent. If Beal has grown frustrated with Phoenix’s organizational turmoil during his tenure, returning to familiar surroundings could appeal to the veteran guard.
The nostalgia factor shouldn’t be underestimated, particularly given Beal’s strong relationships within the Washington organization. Why would the Wizards be interested in this trade? Well, Phoenix will almost certainly have to attach draft capital in any Beal trade, so Washington can pick up an additional pick or two, while bringing back a fan favorite whom they can market.
Golden State Warriors
The Golden State Warriors’ up-tempo, ball-movement offense aligns perfectly with Beal’s skill set as he enters his 14th season.
Beal’s ability to create his own shot and move without the ball would fit seamlessly into Golden State’s system. He could fill a similar role to what Klay Thompson provided for years, offering both catch-and-shoot ability and individual scoring capability.
If Beal can return to form even partially, a core of Stephen Curry, Draymond Green, Butler, and Beal could immediately vault the Warriors back into Western Conference contention, giving them the offensive firepower to compete with the conference’s elite teams.
Milwaukee Bucks
Damian Lillard’s season-ending Achilles injury creates an immediate need for the Milwaukee Bucks, who must maximize their window with two-time MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo. Recent reports suggesting Antetokounmpo is “open-minded” about playing elsewhere add urgency to Milwaukee’s situation.
Trading for Beal would give Antetokounmpo a new talented running mate in the backcourt for the upcoming season, assuming Beal can stay on the court.
With the Eastern Conference appearing wide open entering the 2025-26 season, the Bucks need to act decisively. Adding Beal could provide the scoring necessary to keep Antetokounmpo satisfied while maintaining the team’s championship aspirations.
San Antonio Spurs
Playing alongside ascending superstar Victor Wembanyama represents an enticing opportunity that few players would decline.
San Antonio’s aggressive pursuit of former Sacramento Kings point guard De’Aaron Fox before last season’s trade deadline demonstrates their willingness to accelerate their timeline. While Beal carries a larger contract than Fox, he might prove a better complement to Wembanyama’s unique skill set.
This remains the longest shot among potential destinations (particularly given San Antonio’s current backcourt options), but if the Spurs’ decision-makers want to add a scorer alongside their generational talent, Beal represents an accomplished veteran who could provide immediate impact.
The Bottom Line
Beal’s no-trade clause transforms what would typically be a straightforward transaction into a complex negotiation. His preferences will ultimately determine which teams can realistically pursue him, making his decision as important as any front office maneuvering.
The five destinations outlined here offer varying appeals, from championship contention to homecoming opportunities to the chance to play with emerging superstars. Whichever path Beal chooses will significantly impact both his legacy and the competitive landscape of his new conference.