Bradley Beal has heard his name come up in trade rumors numerous times over the past year, but that does not mean the Washington Wizards have any intention of parting ways with the star guard.
The chances of the Washington Wizards trading Beal this offseason are “slim at best,” according to Fred Katz of The Athletic. Beal has said publicly on several occasions that he wants to remain with the Wizards, and they are operating as if he will re-sign with them after his current deal expires following next season.
A report earlier this month claimed the Brooklyn Nets want to trade for Bradley Beal this summer and are exploring ways to make that happen. The Wizards are just 24-40 this year and Beal is owed $29 million next season, so some think Washington could be persuaded to deal the 26-year-old. However, that does not appear to be the case.
Beal told ESPN’s Jackie MacMullan on Friday that he views the trade talk surrounding him as “a sign of respect.” He also reiterated that he loves playing in Washington, D.C., but admitted he thinks about what it would be like elsewhere when the trade speculation resurfaces.
“I love it here, and it would feel great to know I could grind out winning here instead of jumping to another team. … But I’d be naive to say that I don’t think about it when these stories come up,” Beal said.
Beal, 26, has elevated his game since John Wall suffered a torn Achilles last year. Beal is averaging a career-high 30.5 points per game this season, and he clearly is not getting the recognition he deserves. He made it known that he was upset over not being selected for the All-Star Game, so it would not be a shock if he ends up wanting to be traded. At the moment, however, all signs point to him being back with the Wizards next year and potentially beyond.
