Bradley Beal is now the top available player in the NBA this offseason. The three-time All-Star is working with the Washington Wizards on finding a trade partner. According to ESPN’s Brian Windhorst, two Eastern Conference contenders have emerged ahead of the pack in the Beal sweepstakes.
“Two teams I want to mention that I think are in the forefront right now: Miami Heat — and this is a surprise, but this is what I’ve been told — the Milwaukee Bucks,” Windhorst said while appearing on ESPN’s GetUp.
The Heat are coming off an improbable run to the NBA Finals as an 8-seed. Six-time All-Star Jimmy Butler led the way. However, injuries left Butler surrounded by Bam Adebayo, an array of aging veterans, and undrafted players.
Miami is in the market to upgrade its roster by adding a bonafide star or two. The Heat has emerged as a favorite to get Beal and has enticing assets to send to the Wizards.
The Bucks are the surprise. Milwaukee won the NBA championship in 2021. Yet, the team has battled injuries in the past two seasons that have prevented the team from returning to the Finals. Two-time NBA MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo has viewed Bradley Beal as a “desirable” target to join him in Milwaukee back in 2020.
The Bucks may surge as the favorites to win it all next season if Beal can link with Giannis, especially if All-Defensive Team Jrue Holiday remains on the team.
The Bucks have limited assets entering the offseason that may complicate a trade. Khris Middleton has a player option for next season. By opting out, Middleton becomes an unrestricted free agent. Another asset Brook Lopez will be a free agent this summer — so will Jae Crowder and Joe Ingles.
What’s clear is contenders view Beal as a missing piece. The Sacramento Kings reportedly are also interested in Beal and had discussions with the Wizards.
Beal’s no-trade clause gives him power in the trade talks. That includes his ability to dictate the return the Wizards may get in a trade. The Bucks and Heat represented the East in the Finals three of the last four seasons. Landing Bradley Beal will keep either team’s championship window open.
