The Chicago Bulls are now reportedly in the mix for a potential trade to acquire Phoenix Suns guard Bradley Beal before next week’s NBA trade deadline.
As the February 6 deadline approaches, all eyes are on the Chicago Bulls, with head coach Billy Donovan’s team battling for a spot in the Eastern Conference Play-In. It remains to be seen whether the Bulls will make moves to strengthen their roster or decide to be sellers.
Though the trade rumors have been quiet in Chicago recently, things could change soon, according to NBA insider Brian Windhorst, who just dropped a major bombshell.
Bulls and Suns Discuss Bradley Beal Trade, Report Says
One of the biggest names available this season is Miami Heat superstar Jimmy Butler, who has made it clear he wants out of Miami. The Phoenix Suns are among the teams consistently linked to Butler, but any potential trade for him would likely involve Bradley Beal being moved.
If that happens, the Bulls could be a landing spot for Beal.
“The bottom line is the Bulls and the Suns have talked and the concept of Bradley Beal ending up in Chicago has been discussed,” Windhorst said (h/t RealGM). “I’m not saying it’s going to happen. I’m not saying it’s close or whatever. Obviously, Beal has a no-trade clause.”
Butler, 35, is set to make $48.7 million for the remainder of the season, along with a $52.4 million player option for 2025-26. With stars like Kevin Durant and Devin Booker unlikely to be moved, the Suns’ only option may be to trade Beal, who is owed about $110 million through the 2026-27 season.
Though Beal isn’t putting up All-Star numbers this season, he has been a steady contributor for Phoenix, averaging 17.2 points, shooting 48.5% from the field and 39.6% from three, along with 3.5 rebounds and 3.3 assists per game. He could be a reliable addition for the Bulls, especially if Lonzo Ball and/or Josh Giddey — both free agents this summer — aren’t back next season.
However, a three-team deal isn’t the only way Beal might end up in Chicago. If the Suns can’t land Butler, they could be interested in a direct swap involving one of the Bulls’ key players.
“Sources say Phoenix, to name one example, could emerge with interest in exploring a swap of Bradley Beal for LaVine,” reported NBA insider Jake Fischer on Friday.
LaVine, who has been the subject of trade rumors for years, has enjoyed a strong bounce-back season, averaging 24.0 points, 4.9 rebounds, and 4.5 assists on .512/.444/.792 splits across 41 games. He is also owed about $95 million over the next two seasons.
As we near the trade deadline, the Bulls’ potential interest in Beal will become clearer. If general manager Marc Eversley is looking to make a splash, a blockbuster deal with the Suns could be the way to go.
