Does Bradley Beal still have a no-trade clause?

Bradley Beal is an American basketball player currently playing as shooting guard for the Phoenix Suns. Born on June 28, 1993, Beal was a standout player for Chaminade College Preparatory School in St. Louis, Missouri. As Beal's senior season drew to a close, he won prestigious titles, including the 2011 Mr. Show-Me Basketball which is given for the best high school basketball player in Missouri, and he clinched the 2011 Gatorade National Player of the Year award, solidifying his status as a standout talent in the nation.

Beal's remarkable career continued while representing the University of Florida. While playing for the Gators, Beal earned recognition as a member of the SEC All-Freshman Team and a prestigious first-team All-SEC selection. This resulted in Beal being drafted as the third overall pick in the 2012 NBA Draft by the Washington Wizards.

With the Wizards, Beal quickly made a name for himself as an offensive powerhouse, characterized by an incredibly smooth playing style. His offensive game is characterized by a unique blend of finesse and power. Whether going head-to-head in an isolation situation with some of the league's top defenders or executing a stylish finish at the rim, Beal's versatility and skill set keep defenders on their toes.

A key component of Beal's success lies in his impeccable footwork, which combined with a smooth and deadly jump shot, makes him a formidable adversary for any defender.

His exceptional abilities were showcased when he achieved the remarkable feat of averaging over 30 points per game in consecutive seasons, notably in 2020 and 2021, solidifying his status as an elite scorer in the NBA.

In 2023, a significant turning point arrived in Bradley Beal's career as he became part of a blockbuster trade, ushering in a new chapter by joining the Phoenix Suns. His pursuit of the elusive NBA championship continues, and Bradley Beal remains a pivotal player to watch in the league.

Bradley Beal a no-trade clause

Bradley Beal still has a no-trade clause in his contract.

In 2022, Beal secured a new five-year, $251 million max contract. This contract was particularly historic because it had the coveted "no-trade clause" in it.

This “no-trade clause” distinction is only reserved for players with a minimum of eight years of service and at least four seasons with their re-signing team. Beal fulfilled this criteria and made sure that he gets this clause in his new deal.

This deal sets Beal apart as the only active player in the NBA with a no-trade clause in his contract. With this deal, Beal joins the company of nine other legendary players such who had “no trade clauses” in the contract.

This no-trade clause in Beal’s contract was criticized by many because he is the only player who probably won’t be a first-ballot hall of famer. According to Basketball-Reference.com estimate, Kobe Bryant, Lebron James, Dwyane Wade, Dirk Nowitzki, David Robinson, John Stockton, Kevin Garnett, Tim Duncan all had 100% chance to be a first-ballot hall of famer when they received this coveted “no-trade clause” in their contract; meanwhile Beal only had 2.26% of being first ballot hall of famer.

With this no trade clause, Beal had control over his destiny. This unique privilege meant that if the Washington Wizards ever contemplated trading him, Beal held the sole authority to grant or deny consent. During the 2023 offseason, Washington wanted to trade Beal and the presence of this no-trade clause in Beal’s contract was a massive roadblock during negotiations.

Many teams were interested in Beal but they sought removal of the “no-trade clause”. The three-time All-Star steadfastly declined these requests.

Eventually, the Phoenix Suns agreed to embrace this clause, and brought Beal to their roster. Yet, with this agreement, the Suns are bound to support Beal until the 2026-27 season, as they cannot trade him without his consent. Beal's journey to the Suns comes with a remarkable level of control over his future in the league.

How long is Bradley Beal’s contract?

Bradley Beal’s contract is five years long. The first year of this contract is already lapsed so four years are remaining on his contract which will conclude at the end of the 2026-27 season.

In 2022, Beal agreed to a five-year max contract with the Washington Wizards, worth $251 million guaranteed.