Wizards’ disastrous NBA 2022-23 leaves Bradley Beal “definitely frustrated” after his first season ends on a five-year, $251 million contract

The Washington Wizards endured another dry spell this season, and their shooting guard Bradley Beal was far from pleased with that repeating result over the past few seasons.

He joined the Wizards as the third overall pick in the 2012 NBA draft, but in his 11-year pro career there has been nothing notable about the team’s performances other than a division championship. Eventually, it took its toll on the Wizards star after another season passed without a postseason appearance.

In a recent interview, Bradley openly expressed his frustration with the team over the lack of performance in recent years.

What did Bradley Beal say?

The 29-year-old was rather unhappy after ending the season in 12th place in the Eastern Conference. The record was identical to last season when Wes Unseld took over as the Wizards head coach.

In a news conference, the SG was asked about his future in Washington, having just completed the first year of a newly signed five-year, $251 million deal in 2022. “No, I’m not using my no-trade clause like a trump card. It’s not me, it’s beneath me,” he replied.

“I’m definitely frustrated. I’m also happy with where I am and who we are and what we need to do to get better,” added the three-time All-Star. “It’s nothing I can do … We know where we failed and how we need to improve.”

Bradley Beal says he would not use his no-trade clause as a “trump card” to leverage the Wizards front office this summer. pic.twitter.com/lP8DCi8C4z

— Chase Hughes (@ChaseHughesNBCS) April 10, 2023

“It’s never like I’m like, ‘You know what, I’m out of here,’ you know? But I could very well, as you said, because I have a no trade. But I don’t use it as a trump card,” Beal concluded.

In the disastrous season, he averaged 23.2 points, 3.9 rebounds and 5.4 assists per game in 50 appearances. On the other hand, the Wizards, like last season, ended with a 35-47 record.

The last time they saw success was in the 2016-17 season when they won the Southeast Division and ended their run in a loss to the Boston Celtics in the conference semifinals. The frustration grew exponentially with each season, and the 6.4-footer’s expression was a clear example.

Do you think Bradley Beal should get off the ship while there’s still time? Let us know your thoughts in the comments.