
Beal had missed the last eight games for the Suns, while O'Neale had only missed one game. Collin Gillespie had been starting in place of Beal, but with Kevin Durant (ankle) sidelined, he may remain in the starting lineup. Grayson Allen started in the Suns' last game and had a season-high 23 points. Beal should start, with Gillespie, Allen and O'Neale all potentially filling the final open starting spot. The two that are left out should play a large role off the bench.
Beal has missed Phoenix's last eight games, last seeing action March 16 against the Lakers. His return would coincide with Kevin Durant's continued absence, with KD set to miss a few more games with a sprained ankle. Grayson Allen replaced Durant in the lineup for Tuesday's loss to the Bucks and was productive, scoring 23 points. He and Collin Gillespie will see their playing time take a hit if Beal is cleared to play on Friday.
It would be hard for Miami or New York to find deals that provide the draft picks and salary relief the Suns seek in a trade.
O'Neale was a late addition to the Suns' injury report for Tuesday's game in Milwaukee, which he was ultimately ruled out of. His return to practice is a step in the right direction, as the Suns are already without Kevin Durant (ankle). O'Neale should be considered questionable for Friday's game in Boston, and he would have deep-league streaming value if allowed to play.
Durant is expected to work with the Suns on a possible trade this offseason