The Phoenix Suns have bolstered
their frontcourt by acquiring 7-foot center Nick Richards from the
Charlotte Hornets. In return, the Suns have sent guard Josh Okogie
and three second-round draft picks to Charlotte, while also
receiving one second-round pick from the Hornets, as reported by
ESPN’s Shams Charania.

Richards, 27, has been a
consistent performer for the Hornets this season, averaging 8.9
points, 7.5 rebounds, and 1.2 blocks per game. His presence in the
paint is expected to enhance the Suns’ interior defense and
rebounding capabilities. Notably, Richards had a standout
performance against Phoenix on January 7, recording 15 points, 12
rebounds, and three blocks. 

Josh Okogie, 26, heads to
Charlotte after averaging 6.0 points and 2.9 assists this season,
with a career-best 38.1% shooting from beyond the arc. His
versatility and defensive prowess will be valuable assets for the
Hornets as they continue to develop their roster. 

BREAKDOWN OF THE PHX-CHA NBA TRADE 📊

Phoenix Suns Acquire:
◼️ Nick Richards
◼️ 2025 Second-Round Pick (via Denver)

Charlotte Hornets Acquire:
◼️ Josh Okogie
◼️ 2026 Second-Round Pick (via Denver)
◼️ 2031 Second-Round Pick (via Denver)
◼️ 2031 Second-Round Pick (from Phoenix)… pic.twitter.com/NMuRBeo6km

— BasketballNews.com (@basketbllnews)
January 16, 2025

ANALYSIS: The trade addresses
Phoenix’s need for depth at the center position, providing support
alongside Mason Plumlee and Jusuf Nurkic. Richards’ addition is
anticipated to strengthen the Suns’ rotation as they aim to improve
their standing in the Western Conference, where they currently hold
an 11th-place record at 19-20. 

This transaction reflects both
teams’ strategic adjustments as they approach the mid-season mark,
with the Suns focusing on reinforcing their interior presence and
the Hornets acquiring perimeter depth and future draft
assets.