Bradley Beal said that the Wizards have not approached him in talks for a contract extension, Jorge Castillo of the Washington Post reports.

Beal said that the Wizards have not approached him in talks for a contract extension, Jorge Castillo of the Washington Post reports.

Analysis:

The Wizards undoubtedly view Beal as a key member of their long-term nucleus, but with the team believed to be focusing its attention on clearing cap room for the summer of 2016 to make a run at a potential free agent Kevin Durant, an extension likely won't be hammered out before the October deadline. As a result, Beal, who is believed to be pursuing a max extension, seems likely to instead receive a $7.4 million qualifying offer, which would allow the Wizards to temporarily pass the buck on a new deal.