Heat Linked to Disgruntled $251 Million Star

Heat Linked to Disgruntled $251 Million Star originally appeared on Athlon Sports.

In a stunning recent development that has set the NBA world ablaze this offseason, the Phoenix Suns are discussing a contract buyout with veteran shooting guard Bradley Beal, as reported by Duane Rankin of AZCentral. 

Beal, who signed a five-year, $251 million contract with the Washington Wizards in 2021, is coming off a season in which he averaged 17.0 points, 3.3 rebounds, and 3.7 assists per game across 53 appearances for the Suns.

The 3x All-Star is still owed a remaining $110 million over the next two years on his lucrative contract, which also includes a no-trade clause. 

With a buyout from the Suns looking like a good possibility, several teams, including the Miami Heat, have emerged as contenders to acquire Beal.

According to a recent article published by Draftkings Network, the Heat have been pegged as a prime suitor to land the 31-year-old star. 

Despite doing little damage to begin the offseason, Pat Riley is a president notorious for making big swings and bringing premier talent to South Beach.

After the Heat parted ways with Duncan Robinson in a sign-and-trade acquisition that saw the Heat bring in Italian gem Simone Fontecchio, they'll need a veteran shooter like Beal to compensate for Robinson's loss.

Credible NBA figures like Bill Simmons have endorsed Riley and the Heat for their recent moves, signaling a monumental move to come for the storied franchise.

Beal, a decorated scorer known for carving up defenses, could be exactly what the Heat need to turn their franchise around after shipping Jimmy Butler away to the Golden State Warriors. 

As the NBA offseason progresses, all eyes will be on the Heat to see if they can land the former Florida Gator standout in a blockbuster deal.

Related: Lakers' Return in Historic Kevin Durant 7-Team Trade Revealed

This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Jul 4, 2025, where it first appeared.