Bradley Beal heading towards buyout in Phoenix after Big Three failure with Kevin Durant and Devin Booker

After trading Kevin Durant to the Houston Rockets, the Phoenix Suns are now exploring a potential buyout with Bradley Beal. According to The Arizona Republic, the Arizona franchise is actively discussing a contract buyout with the 32-year-old guard, who still has two years and $110 million remaining on his contract.

This solution would represent a major turning point for the Suns, who are looking to restructure after the failure of their Big Three consisting of Beal, Durant and Devin Booker. The former Wizards player never regained his Washington form, dropping from a career average of 22.1 points with the Wizards to 17.6 points during his two seasons in Phoenix.

Financial constraints complicating negotiations

Unlike the Milwaukee Bucks who simply waived Damian Lillard by spreading his $113 million over five years, Phoenix faces additional obstacles. The Suns have already used the « stretch provision » for Nassir Little and EJ Liddell, accounting for $3.8 million in salary cap next season.

This situation limits their flexibility, as NBA rules state that « stretched » salaries cannot exceed 15% of the salary cap, or $23.2 million. To respect this ceiling, Phoenix would need to negotiate a buyout of maximum $97 million, requiring Beal to give up at least $14 million.

DEVELOPING — The Suns are discussing a possible buyout with Bradley Beal, per @DuaneRankin. pic.twitter.com/9KvDupjgpU

— Hoop Central (@TheHoopCentral) July 3, 2025

The three-time All-Star guard, who has only played 53 games per season since arriving, might accept this solution to regain his freedom. His no-trade clause, which currently blocks any transfer, would be voided in case of a buyout, allowing him to choose his next destination.

This negotiation is part of the Suns’ complete roster overhaul, who have already acquired Jalen Green, Dillon Brooks and the 10th draft pick (used to select Khaman Maluach) in the Durant trade. Phoenix, currently $10 million above the second apron, seeks to regain financial flexibility while ending a disappointing experiment with Beal.