Bill responded to trade rumors: The initiative is in my hands, accept the decision to be a substitute

Bradley Beal said yesterday that he has not received any communication from the Phoenix Suns regarding a potential trade.

In yesterday's game against the 76ers, Bill served as a substitute for the first time in eight years. Despite this, he still contributed 25 points, 5 assists, 1 steal and 1 block in 30 minutes, helping the Suns reverse their opponents with a score of 109-99 and successfully ending their previous four-game losing streak.

After the game, Bill was surprised to be a substitute. He said: "I don't want to lie, it's very difficult to be a substitute. I was a little surprised because I didn't get any hints before. I am a starting-level player in the league, and I firmly believe it. No offense to anyone."

"The coach has made his decision but I'm not going to argue with him or distract the team. I'm not going to be a nuisance."

It is widely believed that Beal's role as a substitute may be a sign that the Suns are ready to trade him. According to previous reports, the Suns intend to send 31-year-old Bradley Beal away before the trade deadline and target Heat star Jimmy Butler. However, their move first requires Beal to give up exercising the trade veto in his contract, just as he did when he moved from the Wizards to the Suns in 2023.

Regarding the concerns of the outside world, Bill made it clear: "I should know in advance because the initiative is in my hands. Unless someone clearly tells me different news, I will still be a member of the Suns."

The Suns played back-to-back against the Hornets today, and Bill continued to serve as a substitute. He made 5 of 13 shots, contributed 10 points and 5 assists, and the Suns lost to the Hornets 104 to 115. After this game, Bill averaged 17.8 points, 3.5 rebounds and 3.2 assists per game this season, with a shooting percentage of 48.5% and a three-point shooting percentage of 39.1%.