Washington Wizards GM Responds to Ongoing Trade Rumors Surrounding Bradley Beal

The Washington Wizards were unimpressive last season, despite a valiant effort by Bradley Beal. He averaged 30.5 points and 6.1 assists per game, but the Wizards went on to miss the playoffs for the second year in a row. This prompted rumors about Beal asking to be traded away. But GM Tommy Sheppard seemed confident when asked about Beal’s future with the team.

“Brad absolutely has been committed to us,” Sheppard said. “Last summer, he signed an extension with us. I think we’re absolutely committed to him. The biggest thing we ask for each other is ‘hey, let’s go win.'”

Last week, Beal confirmed that teams have expressed their interest in him. He said that it has been happening for a few years now, but Beal says he just views it as a sign of respect and plays on.

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Can Beal take the Washington Wizards to the playoffs?

Sheppard then reiterated that they have always had strong communication with Beal, and he hasn’t changed his mind about staying. He also added that Beal is excited for the upcoming season, probably because of John Wall’s return from injury. Sheppard added:

“He and I have been a straight line of communication throughout the offseason. He’s really excited for next season. He hasn’t given any indication whatsoever on that and I wouldn’t expect to hear about it from anybody but him. And I think he’s as committed to D.C. as he always has been.”

Last season, Beal single-handedly got the Wizards multiple wins when the team was reeling from injuries. But next season, they will have a big spark returning. After a two-year absence due to injury, Wall is finally going to return in the upcoming season. The Wizards now have a chance to break out of the rut and return to the playoffs.

In these two seasons without Wall, Beal has matured as a scorer, and now with him returning, the team will once again be fun to watch.  They’ll be one of the best backcourts in the Eastern Conference if Wall can be the same player he was prior to the injury. Beal’s ability to carry the team will help him ease in as the Wizards attempt to becoming a respectable team in the East.

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