When the Phoenix Suns acquired Bradley Beal in the summer of 2023, it was assumed they were adding another high-level ball-handler who could get his shot off from all three levels. Beal, a three-time All-Star, was among the best-scoring talents in the Eastern Conference.
However, under Mike Budenholzer, Beal has shown he’s more than just a scorer. To begin the season, he has become one of the Suns’ most reliable defenders and is embracing the little details that teams must master to become contenders.
During his postgame news conference following the Suns’ 103-97 win over the Portland Trail Blazers, Grayson Allen detailed how Beal is changing the narrative around his play style and what he brings to a team.
“Brad does a ton of the little things,” Allen said. “…He makes extra plays, he hustles, he’s driving. I know he’s had this reputation for his whole career, this reputation of being a 30-point scorer. Before I got here last year, that’s kind of what Brad did. But he does so many little things out there that contribute towards us being a good team and a winning team. He does things that don’t show up and that people might not notice unless you’re watching our games. He’s a huge part of our success.”
Last season, both Devin Booker and Beal struggled due to the additional ball-handling duties on their plates. Now, with Tyus Jones setting the table, Beal can lock in and focus on playing his game. With the amount of offensive talent around him, his defensive contributions are starting to shine.
Beal is 31 years old. At that age, it’s hard for a star-level player to change the perception regarding what they bring to a team. However, after years of being on a middling Washington team, Beal has that rare opportunity. If he can help the Suns make a deep postseason push or even challenge for a spot in the NBA Finals, his overall skill set will be reevaluated by fans, media and coaches alike.
The Suns are getting more than they bargained for with Beal, and it could be the difference-maker once we get deeper into the season.