But this is the other option. The one that exists between a hostile standoff and a long-term financial burden: a buyout at a reduced number, with the Suns absorbing the cap hit over the next two seasons instead of stretching it across five.

With a buyout, Phoenix could stretch Beal's contract out over five years, much like the Bucks are doing with Damian Lillard.

Bradley Beal is "open to cooperating" on a potential buyout from his contract with the Phoenix Suns, Forbes' Evan Sidery reported on Friday.