NBA Rumors: Bulls, Suns Discussed Bradley Beal Trade amid Jimmy Butler Buzz

The Phoenix Suns and Chicago Bulls have had conversations surrounding a potential trade involving Bradley Beal, according to ESPN's Brian Windhorst.

"The bottom line is that the Bulls and the Suns have talked and the concept of Bradley Beal ending up in Chicago has been discussed," Windhorst said on Monday's episode of The Hoop Collective (46:30 mark). "I'm not saying it's going to happen. I'm not saying it's close. Obviously Beal has a no-trade clause."

The Suns have reportedly been on the lookout for a blockbuster trade prior to the Feb. 6 deadline, with Windhorst and ESPN's Tim Bontemps reporting Friday that trading for Miami Heat star Jimmy Butler is their "top objective" leading up to the deadline.

What makes a deal tricky is Beal's remaining contract, as he's set to earn $53.6 million for the 2025-26 season and also has a $57.1 million player option for his 2026-27 campaign (via Spotrac).

According to ESPN's Bobby Marks, the Heat have "no desire" to take on Beal's contract in a deal involving Butler and the Suns would have to find a third team if they hope to facilitate a trade.

Phoenix could bring in Chicago as a third team, or it could pursue a different star. NBA insider Jake Fischer reported Friday that the Suns "could emerge with interest" in exploring a swap of Beal for Bulls shooting guard Zach LaVine.

LaVine has averaged 24.0 points, 4.9 rebounds and 4.5 assists per game on 51.2/44.4/79.2 shooting splits in 41 starts with Chicago.

After winning 49 games last season, Phoenix has struggled with inconsistency in 2024-25. The Suns currently sit at 23-21, owning the No. 8 spot in the Western Conference standings.

Beal must waive his no-trade clause to experience a change of scenery prior to the deadline, but Chicago appears to be a potential landing spot if he ultimately chooses to do so.