NBA #SoleWatch Power Rankings for February 25

The Phoenix Suns’ decision to move Bradley Beal to a bench role this week was widely regarded with cynicism as a way to convince him to waive his no-trade clause so they can send him out as part of a package to acquire Jimmy Butler. But sources tell Jake Fischer that it was an attempt to turn Beal into a more aggressive scorer with second units. Beal responded by scoring 25 points in a win over the Philadelphia 76ers.

ESPN’s Brian Windhorst also reported that he was told by sources from the Suns that Beal’s bench role was sincere and not related to potential trade activity.

Beyond a pursuit of Butler, the Suns are also actively searching other ways to improve the roster by seeing what they could receive in return for their first round pick in 2031.

The Suns haven’t broached Beal’s no-trade clause with him directly and are not expected to do so unless they have a tangible multi-team trade construction with the Heat.

“You can’t bring anything to Brad unless there’s a deal on the table,” said one longtime Eastern Conference executive. “You can’t lose him until you know you’re going to move him.”

Beal has settled his family in the Phoenix area and is not believed to be interested in waiving his no-trade clause.