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via Imago
Dec 28, 2024; San Francisco, California, USA; Phoenix Suns guard Bradley Beal (3) waits for play to resume against the Golden State Warriors during the fourth quarter at Chase Center. Mandatory Credit: Robert Edwards-Imagn Images
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via Imago
Dec 28, 2024; San Francisco, California, USA; Phoenix Suns guard Bradley Beal (3) waits for play to resume against the Golden State Warriors during the fourth quarter at Chase Center. Mandatory Credit: Robert Edwards-Imagn Images
It’s decision time at long last for the Suns. After pondering over the future of Bradley Beal, a solution is right in front of them. But the drama always has its supporting cast. Jusuf Nurkic being one of the members of the ugly Mike Budenholzer rift, the franchise had to ensure his part as well. And it seems like they finally have.
According to Evan Sidery, “The Suns will soon be trading Jusuf Nurkic.” He also stated, “Four teams appear open to taking on Nurkic in exchange for a first-round pick,” reporting for Forbes. A source told Sidery that the Chicago Bulls, Toronto Raptors, Washington Wizards, and Atlanta Hawks are among the teams interested in Nurkic.
That first-round pick has its value because the domino effect also involves another NBA star. “Atlanta Hawks sharpshooter Bogdan Bogdanovic has emerged as a target for the Suns ahead of the trade deadline,” Brett Siegel of Clutchpoints confirmed.
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The Suns will soon be trading Jusuf Nurkic, who is now their fourth-string center.
For @Forbes, the latest on Phoenix’s search to deal Nurkic’s contract for value in return.
Four teams appear open to taking on Nurkic in exchange for a first-round pick. https://t.co/RoWo2zmWpq
— Evan Sidery (@esidery) January 30, 2025
The $17 million Serbian guard’s trade could open up the much-needed cap space Mat Ishbia was looking for to facilitate the Jimmy Butler trade. There are some speculations suggesting that the franchise might back out of the Heat star trade after pursuing it for so long. So Beal, who has a no-trade clause, just might end up with the Suns as the Suns are making a last-ditch effort to materialize their win-now mentality.
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With all these trade rumors looming, Bradley Beal’s agent, Mark Bartelstein has spoken out about his client’s clause and whether they are considering any offers.
Bradley Beal’s agent clarifies his client’s position amid trade speculations
As per Ramona Shelburne and Bobby Marks of ESPN, Beal’s agent highlighted the importance of the unique no-trade clause, making it clear that Beal holds the power and is not willing to give it up. “Brad worked really hard to earn a no-trade clause. We earned it and we have it—and it is really valuable,” Bartelstein emphasized.
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But that doesn’t mean there would be no trade ever. “Does that mean that he would never, ever accept a trade? No. You always have an open mind and you always are willing to listen to things that you think might be great.” Beal’s agent further clarified, “At this time, there’s nothing we’re considering.”
For now, Beal’s sole focus is on helping Phoenix win the championship title, making that abundantly clear. So, the Suns’ Big 3 could remain intact even after the trade, with Jimmy Butler’s potential move seemingly fading unless the Suns find another solution. The clock is ticking as the trade deadline approaches.
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Debate
Is Bogdanovic the missing piece for the Suns, or just another gamble in their trade saga?
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Is Bogdanovic the missing piece for the Suns, or just another gamble in their trade saga?
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