Bradley Beal’s future in Phoenix could be decided as soon as the next two days, according to veteran Suns reporter John Gambadoro. In a tweet Sunday, Gambadoro said he expects a “decision and resolution” on Beal’s situation within 24–48 hours, signaling the team’s intent to move quickly.
Gambadoro outlined why the Suns may opt to waive and stretch the remaining $96.9 million of Beal’s contract over five years. He noted that the move would help Phoenix avoid punitive tax aprons, unlock a frozen first-round pick, and create flexibility to trade a future selection as soon as next year.
The 31-year-old guard, who averaged 17.0 points per game on 49.7% shooting last season, has struggled to fit alongside Kevin Durant and Devin Booker since arriving from Washington. Gambadoro described the situation bluntly, stating it is “better to get off a player who just did not work here.”
Waiving and stretching Beal would keep his annual cap hit at a manageable level as the salary cap continues to rise. Gambadoro emphasized that Phoenix’s willingness to exceed the cap in future years mitigates the downside of the strategy.
Beal’s full no-trade clause and $57.1 million player option for 2026–27 have made a trade nearly impossible, with league executives projecting his market value closer to the mid-level exception. A buyout or stretch remains the most realistic outcome for both sides.
Several playoff contenders are monitoring Beal’s status and are expected to pursue him if he becomes a free agent. Miami has surfaced as an early possibility, though Gambadoro’s report focused squarely on the Suns’ cap strategy and timeline for a decision.
The Suns are reshaping their roster around Devin Booker and newly acquired Jalen Green, with additional moves reportedly under consideration involving Nick Richards, Grayson Allen, and Royce O’Neale.
Beal arrived in Phoenix in June 2023 after being traded from Washington for Chris Paul and draft capital. Injuries and roster fit challenges have since prevented the Suns from realizing their vision of an elite scoring trio.
