Golden State Warriors Reportedly Almost Landed $251,019,650 Phoenix Suns Superstar Amid Buyout Rumors

As speculation mounted regarding Bradley Beal’s potential buyout from the Phoenix Suns, the Golden State Warriors quickly emerged as a serious contender to land the three-time All-Star guard. With Stephen Curry, Draymond Green, and recently acquired Jimmy Butler pushing for one last title run, Beal’s availability piqued widespread interest around the league.

Why Bradley Beal Made Sense for the Golden State Warriors

Instant Offensive Upgrade

Bradley Beal’s addition would have significantly boosted Golden State’s scoring arsenal. A proven 20+ PPG scorer throughout his career, Beal shot an impressive 40.7% from three with the Suns in 2024–25, making him an ideal fit in the Golden State Warriors’ ball-movement-heavy offense. His perimeter threat would create more space for Curry and Butler, and punish teams for defensive lapses.

Backcourt Chemistry with Stephen Curry

A Curry-Beal pairing could have formed one of the NBA’s most electric offensive duos.

Beal’s on-ball creation, midrange proficiency, and ability to score at all three levels would have complemented Curry’s off-ball brilliance. Crucially, it would also allow Golden State to manage the 38-year-old Curry’s workload by shifting some of the scoring and playmaking burden to Beal.

Depth and Rotation Versatility

By staggering Bradley Beal with Curry or Butler, head coach Steve Kerr could have kept a go-to scorer on the floor at all times.

Beal’s ability to lead bench units and generate offense without assistance would have added a valuable dimension to the Golden State Warriors’ second unit.

Veteran Leadership and Playoff Mettle

A respected voice in the locker room with playoff experience, Bradley Beal would’ve brought added poise to a Warriors team still reeling from last season’s early postseason exit. His presence could have helped stabilize the team in high-pressure moments.

The Salary Hurdle

Despite the mutual interest, the Golden State Warriors’ financial constraints posed a major obstacle.

Reports indicate Golden State could only extend a minimum contract to Bradley Beal, far below what he hoped to earn after his buyout with Phoenix. The front office explored the possibility of freeing up the full mid-level exception (MLE)—potentially by dealing a promising young player like Jonathan Kuminga—but such a move raised questions about mortgaging the future for a short-term gain.

Also read: NBA Trade Rumors: Golden State Warriors might sign $48 million Milwaukee Bucks star to bolster roster and improve Stephen Curry's Championship oddsUltimately, had Bradley Beal picked the Golden State Warriors over the Clippers, he would have filled a crucial role as a secondary scorer and elite floor-spacer, easing Curry’s burden and strengthening Golden State’s shot at another championship. The only unknown was whether both sides could have found a financial compromise—and if Beal was ready to sacrifice salary in exchange for a ring.