Wed, Jan 15, 2025 at 5:15pm

RICHARDS SENT TO THE SUNS

The Phoenix Suns acquired center Nick Richards and a conditional second-round draft pick in 2025 from the Charlotte Hornets for forward/guard Josh Okogie, a second-round draft pick in 2026 and two second-round draft picks in 2031.

What does it give the Phoenix Suns
For the Suns, this trade makes a ton of sense. Richards provides Phoenix with an upgrade at the center position. Jusuf Nurkic has struggled this season and is currently out of the rotation altogether. Mason Plumlee is a journeyman, so Richards may step into the Suns' starting five immediately.

What does it give the Charlotte Hornets
For Charlotte, getting out from under Richards' contract in order to add greater salary flexibility was the key to this deal. Adding future picks is an added bonus here. Charlotte is not contending this season, and injuries have played a big role, so this is an opportunity to reset and look ahead to bigger off-season plans.

Fantasy impact
Since the center position is not very deep in most fantasy circles, adding someone like Richards in many formats makes sense at this time. As for Okogie, he is unlikely to become a regular part of Charlotte's rotation. And even if he does, he may not make much of an impact. Pass.