Bradley Beal and Chris Paul Jan 11, 2021; Washington, District of Columbia, USA; Phoenix Suns guard Chris Paul (3) dribbles the ball behind his back to avoid Washington Wizards guard Bradley Beal (3) in the fourth quarter at Capital One Arena. Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports

The NBA offseason is only a few days old, but the Phoenix Suns and Washington Wizards have already turned a blockbuster trade.

The Athletic’s Shams Charania reported Sunday that the Suns are trading 12-time All-Star Chris Paul to the Wizards for three-time All-Star guard Bradley Beal.

The Suns are reportedly also trading shooting guard Landry Shamet (8.7 points per game last season) and several second-round picks. The two teams will also swap multiple picks.

The Suns had been trying to work out a deal with the Miami Heat for Beal in recent days, but talks fell through. The 29-year-old Beal, who has been hampered by injuries in recent years, averaged 23.2 points per game last season.

Paul, 38, had likewise been the subject of speculation about his future, with one recent report suggesting Phoenix would waive him. The NBA rumor mill reported a possible Paul trade to several different teams, although he told the Arizona Republic recently he wanted to remain in Phoenix.

The NBA world generally seemed to think the Suns got the better end of the deal, but not everyone agreed.

[Shams Charania, The Athletic]

About Arthur Weinstein

Arthur spends his free time traveling around the U.S. to sporting events, state and national parks, and in search of great restaurants off the beaten path.