The San Antonio Spurs are determined to enhance their roster this summer, with a focus on building around 20-year-old sensation Victor Wembanyama. One potential move that could boost both their current performance and future prospects is a trade for Bradley Beal.
In an August 16 column for Bleacher Report, Zach Buckley proposed a trade between the Spurs and the Phoenix Suns.
Proposed Trade:
- Spurs Receive: Bradley Beal, 2026 second-round pick (via DEN), 2031 second-round pick (via DEN), and 2031 second-round pick (via PHO)
- Suns Receive: Harrison Barnes, Keldon Johnson, Julian Champagnie
“They [the Spurs] wouldn’t be giving up anyone of major significance to acquire a three-time All-Star who has averaged over 30 points in consecutive seasons,” Buckley noted. “Additionally, this move would allow the Spurs to see how a top-tier perimeter shot-creator could complement Wembanyama, potentially shaping their long-term strategy.”
Beal, a three-time All-Star, is a proven scorer at all three levels. However, his contract is considered one of the most burdensome in the NBA, with three years and $103.8 million remaining. Despite this, adding Beal could provide the Spurs with the veteran scoring presence they need to support Wembanyama.
In his first season with the Suns, Beal averaged 18.2 points, 5.0 assists, 4.4 rebounds, and 1.0 steals in 54 regular-season games.
Balancing the Spurs’ Present and Future
Landing a talent like Wembanyama in the draft is rare, and the Spurs are keen to capitalize on this opportunity. While Beal’s contract might be seen as a burden for the Suns, in San Antonio, he could bring veteran leadership and scoring support that could help nurture Wembanyama’s development into a future superstar.
Buckley’s proposal isn’t without its flaws for the Spurs, but it’s the kind of deal they should keep in mind over the next season or two as Wembanyama continues to establish himself in the league. Even after his impressive silver-medal finish in the Paris Olympics this summer, there’s limited optimism that the current Spurs roster can mount a championship run.
While the Spurs did make a significant Wembanyama-focused signing with Chris Paul earlier this summer, they need to be cautious about making moves that could hinder their long-term goals. However, certain trades, like the proposed Beal deal, could be worth considering if they align with the team’s future vision.
There are always exceptions to the rule. If a superstar like Stephen Curry or Luka Doncic became available, the Spurs would undoubtedly explore pairing them with Wembanyama. Until then, deals that bring back assets and talent should remain a priority.
Beal wouldn’t be the financial burden in San Antonio that he is in Phoenix. Instead, he could provide much-needed veteran leadership and reliable scoring alongside the budding superstar Wembanyama.
“The Suns are adamant about starting next season with their Durant-Booker-Beal trio to see what they can achieve under new coach Mike Budenholzer,” wrote Stein on June 26.
If the Suns’ stance changes, the Spurs are one of the few teams capable of taking on Beal’s contract. The return package, which includes solid pieces like Barnes, Johnson, and Champagnie, isn’t bad for a team looking to bolster its roster depth.
Barnes, 32, is coming off his 12th NBA season, where he averaged 12.2 points on 38% shooting from three with the Sacramento Kings. He’s exactly the kind of player teams like Phoenix—or San Antonio—should be considering.
Beal holds a no-trade clause, so any deal would require his approval. However, if things don’t go as planned for the Suns this season, the Spurs could make a persuasive offer for a player nearing the end of his prime.
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