Washington Wizards shooting guard Bradley Beal has had an eye on the Miami Heat for years, according to NBA insider Fred Katz of The Athletic.
Beal, who has a no-trade clause in his contract, could request a trade to the Heat this offseason.
“Bradley Beal has had an eye on the Miami Heat for years,” Katz wrote. “The three-time All-Star has mulled over his future time and time again over the past few summers, even if his decision has always been to return to the Washington Wizards, the only organization he’s played for during his 11 NBA seasons. In those moments, according to sources, the Heat have consistently stood above the rest of the league. If Beal had a formal list, which he never has before, then Miami would have been right there at the top of it.”
Beal is close friends with Heat center Bam Adebayo. Miami has the assets to acquire Beal from the Wizards, who could embark on a rebuild this offseason.
Washington and Beal intend to work together to find a trade that would send the three-time All-Star to a contender if the team elects to reset the organization and rebuild under new president Michael Winger.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Bradley Beal, Washington Wizards & Miami Heat Updates
The Heat lost to the Denver Nuggets in the 2023 NBA Finals in five games. They are one piece away from potentially winning it all next season, which is why most NBA execs believe Pat Riley will do whatever it takes to acquire Beal this offseason.
Adebayo and star small forward Jimmy Butler are believed to be the only untouchable players on the Heat. Beal, who averaged 23.2 points, 3.9 rebounds and 5.4 assists this past season, could help Miami take the next step in 2023-24.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Bradley Beal, Washington Wizards & Miami Heat Updates
If the Wizards trade Beal, they are expected to move him before the 2022 NBA Draft, which is on June 22.
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