The Phoenix Suns are actively seeking to enhance their team composition, but their options are limited due to a scarcity of trade assets.
A floated idea involves sending Jusuf Nurkic, along with a package of second-round draft picks, to the Charlotte Hornets to acquire center Nick Richards.
Phoenix currently holds three second-round picks that they can maneuver in trades.
They also have one first-round pick at their disposal, but the Suns are not willing to include it in a deal for Richards, indicating they view him as a valuable asset but not at the cost of their higher draft capital.
Nurkic’s role with the Suns has taken a downturn, having lost his starting position to Mason Plumlee. After transitioning to a bench role, Nurkic has been sidelined for the team’s recent games, showing a clear shift in the team’s strategy regarding his involvement.
To make the trade work under the NBA’s salary cap rules, Charlotte would need to include an additional player to match salaries. This could be advantageous for Phoenix, not only in terms of potentially reducing their payroll but also in adding depth to their roster.
Financially, Nurkic is on a substantial contract, earning $18.1 million this season and set to earn $19.4 million next season. On the other hand, Richards is more of a bargain, with a salary of $5 million this year.
His contract for the following year is also at $5 million but is fully non-guaranteed, providing Phoenix with flexibility on their salary cap situation.
Nurkic has played 11 seasons for the Trail Blazers, Suns, and Nuggets. He has averaged 12.0 points, 9.0 rebounds, and 2.5 assists in 564 regular-season games.
Suns, Hornets Have Talked Jusuf Nurkic, Nick Richards Swap https://t.co/XpDAfrFBc9
— RealGM (@RealGM) January 12, 2025
