The Charlotte Hornets have acquired forward Josh Okogie and three second-round picks from the Phoenix Suns in exchange for center Nick Richards and a 2025 Denver second-rounder. The trade, announced on Wednesday, gives the Suns much-needed help at the center position.
Nick Richards, who stands at 7-foot tall, has been averaging 8.9 points and 7.5 rebounds per game this season with the Hornets. He has shown significant productivity in his nine starts, averaging 11.3 points, 10.2 rebounds, and 1.7 blocks. Over the last four seasons, Richards has shot 65% from the field, ranking fifth-best in the NBA during that span.
The Hornets have accumulated significant draft capital over the past year, acquiring two first-round picks and eight second-round picks. They will also receive Okogie, who has a team-friendly non-guarantee for the 2025-26 season. Okogie’s defensive skills are expected to complement Richards’ game.
Richards is likely to compete with Mason Plumlee and rookie Oso Ighodaro for the starting center position in Phoenix. The Suns have been without veteran center Jusuf Nurkic due to illness, but he was recently moved to the bench. Richards has a history of success against the Suns, posting 15 points, 12 rebounds, and three blocks in their January 7 game.
Source: https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/43429232/sources-suns-acquire-nick-richards-trade-hornets