Breaking: Suns Deal Josh Okogie to Hornets in Exchange for Center Nick Richards

The Phoenix Suns have just acquired a new center, Nick Richards, from the Charlotte Hornets. The trade was announced on Wednesday. The Suns are sending guard Josh Okogie and three future second-round draft picks to the Hornets. In return, they will receive a second-round pick from Charlotte as well.

While this move isn’t as big as some others being discussed—like the potential trade for Miami Heat star Jimmy Butler—it still strengthens the Suns’ roster. Richards, who stands at 7 feet tall, can boost their performance in the paint.

Currently, Richards is averaging 8.9 points and 7.5 rebounds per game in his fifth NBA season. He was drafted in the second round in 2020 after playing at Kentucky. Although he primarily comes off the bench, he has a solid shooting percentage of 65% over the last four seasons, ranking him among the best in the league.

On the other hand, Okogie has been averaging 6 points and 2.9 rebounds this season. He joined the Suns three years ago and is currently in the first year of a two-year contract.

The Hornets are struggling this season, holding an 8-28 record, while the Suns are sitting at 19-20 before their game against the Washington Wizards. Though the Suns have won four of their last six games, they’ve had a rough stretch where they lost seven of eight. Adding Richards might not solve all their problems, but it’s a smart move to help them improve as the season progresses.