The Milwaukee Bucks have a few roster spots up for grabs, and one target, if he hits the open market, could be Phoenix Suns guard Bradley Beal. Per John Gambadoro of Arizona Sports, the Bucks are one of the teams that would aim to take a swing at the guard if he were to be bought out or waived and stretched by Phoenix, just like what the Bucks shockingly did with Damian Lillard.
"People I've spoken with said Milwaukee would take him. Golden State would take him. Maybe the Lakers."
Bradley Beal at this price might not be so bad (emphasis on might)
Milwaukee has been linked to Beal several times in recent years. However, in those cases, it was always via trade. With the former All-Star making north of $50 million, it was always tough to think about bringing him aboard through a trade, given his declining play. Yet, he'd become far more of an enticing prospect if the Suns were to let him hit the open market.
Basically, Bradley Beal is far more enticing for $3 million than at $50 million.
There's no doubt that Beal has regressed since joining the Suns. In those two seasons, he's averaged 17.6 points, 4.3 assists, and a steal per game while shooting 40.7 percent from three, which is still not horrible. Yet, his defensive lapses and recent injury woes, having appeared in just 113 games in that span, have seen his value decrease mightily.
On a cheap deal, which is all the Milwaukee Bucks have to offer, Beal could help. This team could use another shot-creator and ball-handler to alleviate some pressure off of Giannis Antetokounmpo, who will likely see the most responsibility as a floor general of his career next year. Perhaps a change of scenery with a player of Giannis' caliber could give Bradley Beal a boost.
Of course, the injury concerns will loom large. However, unlike the Suns, the Bucks wouldn't be on the hook for $50-plus million with Beal. On a minimum deal, it'd be a low-risk move. Before any of this will gain traction, the Phoenix Suns must first decide what to do with Beal. A trade is still possible, but the Milwaukee Bucks certainly won't make an offer for his services in that regard.
It's not a guarantee that Beal immediately comes to Milwaukee, as he will have other suitors who may be willing to offer more than the Bucks can. Los Angeles and Golden State were two other teams mentioned as Bradley Beal suitors, so they will be worth monitoring as well.
Stay tuned for more Milwaukee Bucks analysis.