Elite NBA players may stumble into the paradox of fandom: we want them to put winning first (particularly rings), but we also want them to be devoted to a team.
Bradley Beal has been involved in it for years as the subject of the most recent five years' worth of star-move rumors. Beal has stuck with the Wizards squad through it all, even though they have only ever advanced as far as the second round with him on it (and has made the playoffs just once in the past four seasons). He was part of a team that compensated him well but had problematic team dynamics. Beal spoke with Haute Living about that loyalty.
The shooting guard says, "People constantly look at me like I'm crazy, but I have a big drive to make it work and win here. This is the team who drafted me. They are incredibly dependable, and I get along well with the owners and our front office. Additionally, there aren't many opportunities for NBA players to be labeled as the franchise guy during their careers, you know? Everything depends on my having that chance and being in a position where I can tell my tale.
"Loyalty is unquestionably important to me. Basketball is a sport, but it's also a business. There are occasions when team loyalty is called into doubt when players are selected by teams and traded soon after. That emotion [with the Wizards] has never existed for me. I've never had to deal with that specific cloud hanging over my head while working here. We always talk directly about where we're headed and what we're doing, which I appreciate.
Regarding this, he states, "I feel like if I win a championship here in DC, the grind of it, with everything I've gone through, all the difficulties and ups and downs, that would make a win that much sweeter, makes me appreciate it that much more. And I enjoy working hard and occasionally defying the odds.
Beal is devoted, but he also made the best financial choice by committing to a five-year, $251 million contract with a no-trade clause that begins the next season.
For the short term, that deal will end trade talks. Possibly a season. However, the whispers will resurface if the Wizards fail to make the playoffs this season, depending on Kristaps Porzingis remaining healthy and performing at an All-Star level. These might be due to Beal deciding it's time to move on and pursue a championship or the team's decision to rebuild. The no-trade provision lets Beal choose his destination if he is transferred; the Wizards cannot simply dump him. Although Beal can choose his team, the team that acquires him in a trade can undercut the Wizards with their offer because no other team is interested in acquiring him.
If supporters criticize players who force (or attempt to force) their way out of town as terrible for the game, then Beal's loyalty should be commended. He has decided to represent the franchise in the capital of the country. That merits praise, and perhaps his devotion will be acknowledged with victories this season (although most project the Wizards to be fighting for a play-in spot).
It's encouraging to hear Beal discuss that loyalty. Just be aware that the NBA rumor mill won't stop.
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