Wizards offer Bradley Beal extension, according to report

The Washington Wizards have offered guard Bradley Beal an extension on Friday, according to Chase Hughes of NBC Sports Washington. The move was not unexpected, because General Manager Tommy Sheppard has been open that the team is looking to build around Beal for the past several seasons.

As stated yesterday, the Wizards could offer Beal an extension for up to four years and $181.5 million. However, unlike the extension he signed two years ago, Beal may be more inclined to wait this season out before signing another contract. This season is the first season where that 2019 extension takes effect and there is a player option next season. Beal could opt out after this season and then sign a five-year, $235 million the following season with Washington (or any other team with the cap space).

I don’t expect Beal to sign an extension with the Wizards despite the offer, which appears to just be a confirmation of what most of us knew all along. Washington is building around Beal and will make any and every gesture possible so that it is clear. But at the same time, Beal is looking to keep his options open, not just to make money, but also to play for a team that can compete for an NBA championship sooner rather than later.