The Washington Wizards are reportedly considering trade options for star shooting guard Bradley Beal.
ESPN NBA insider Adrian Wojnarowski says the Wizards brass and Beal’s team are in “close contact” as possible scenarios roll in.
“As rivals begin reaching out to the Wizards to explore possibility of trading for All-Star guard Bradley Beal, president Michael Winger and Beal’s agent Mark Bartelstein of Priority Sports are staying in close contact to discuss scenarios presented to franchise,” Woj reports.
ESPN Sources: As rivals begin reaching out to the Wizards to explore possibility of trading for All-Star guard Bradley Beal, president Michael Winger and Beal’s agent Mark Bartelstein of Priority Sports are staying in close contact to discuss scenarios presented to franchise.
— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) June 14, 2023
Last year, Beal signed a five-year, $251 million supermax extension with the Wizards that includes a no-trade clause — meaning the three-time All-Star must approve any potential trade deal.
As recently as 2021, Beal averaged more than 30 points per game. But over the past two seasons, his scoring has dropped off significantly. Recent injuries have been a real issue and the longtime Wizards star will be 30 by the start of the 2023-24 season.
Given all of these factors — plus his massive contract — the Wizards may not get the return they want for Beal.