Bradley Beal makes his feelings clear on Suns commitment amid trade rumors: "Not gonna be a distraction"

Bradley Beal has had an up-and-down season and a half since he joined the Phoenix Suns in 2023. His performance has led to trade rumors over the past two seasons. After the Suns' 123-115 win over the Atlanta Hawks on Thursday, Beal addressed the rumors, emphasizing his desire to be with the team and help them win.

Beal has a lot of experience dealing with rumors and the pressure of the media over his 13 seasons in the NBA. His teammates, including co-stars Kevin Durant and Devin Booker, have defended and lauded him as a teammate amidst the news circling the team.

Speaking at his postgame media availability at Footprint Center in Phoenix, Beal told reporters that he is ignoring the rumors floating around him.

"Every moment," Beal said. "But again, I'm not gonna be a distraction, I'm not gonna be an a**hole, I'm not gonna be unprofessional. I'm gonna do my job. I'm gonna do what I'm asked to do.

"I always take pride in my game. In who I am, in what I do. This is no different. I guess it’s just more magnified cuz it’s something that people are not used to seeing."

Beal has started all but three games for the Suns this season, recently moving to a bench role with the team.

Bradley Beal's name has been one of the mainstays in trade rumors this season

The Suns are in 12th place in the West, on the outside of the current playoff picture looking in. They are expected to make a trade to improve their roster before the Feb. 6 deadline, and Beal's name has been attached to many rumors around the team.

The Suns are reportedly interested in trading for Jimmy Butler, according to Forbes' Evan Sidery. They could use Beal and his contract to help facilitate the trade. Beal has a no-trade clause in his contract that will allow him to veto any trade he is included in, giving him control over where he ends up.