Areas Bradley Beal must improve for Suns to be title contender

WASHINGTON, DC - MARCH 18: Bradley Beal #3 of the Washington Wizards handles the ball against the Sacramento Kings at Capital One Arena on March 18, 2023 in Washington, DC. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by G Fiume/Getty Images)
WASHINGTON, DC - MARCH 18: Bradley Beal #3 of the Washington Wizards handles the ball against the Sacramento Kings at Capital One Arena on March 18, 2023 in Washington, DC. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by G Fiume/Getty Images)
2 of 5
WASHINGTON, DC – MARCH 18: Bradley Beal of the Washington Wizards shoots the ball against Chimezie Metu of the Sacramento Kings. (Photo by G Fiume/Getty Images)
WASHINGTON, DC – MARCH 18: Bradley Beal of the Washington Wizards shoots the ball against Chimezie Metu of the Sacramento Kings. (Photo by G Fiume/Getty Images)

Enhancing off-ball play

Beal’s shot creation is one of his most valuable skills, but with the Suns’ roster, his off-ball play will be more critical. His 3-point shooting percentage has dipped to 34.5 percent over the past four seasons, mainly due to the quality of his looks with the Washington Wizards.

Playing alongside Kevin Durant and Devin Booker, Beal will have better opportunities, and his off-ball threat must be maximized. The Suns’ coaching staff must work on Beal’s movement without the ball and his ability to capitalize on open shots. A return to his earlier career 3-point percentage of 38.4 percent would be a significant boost for the Suns’ offense.

Balancing the Big Three

The combination of Beal, Durant, and Booker forms a formidable big three, but it also presents a challenge in terms of balancing the offense. All three players are exceptional scorers and willing playmakers, but finding the right rotation and combination will be key.

Beal’s ability to adapt to a new role, where he might be considered the third scoring option, will be vital. His psychological readiness to embrace this role and contribute to the team’s success will be a determining factor in the Suns’ championship aspirations.