Phoenix Suns center Nick Richards is expected to have his $5 million non-guaranteed salary for the 2025-26 season fully guaranteed, according to Michael Scotto of HoopsHype.
League sources cited by Scotto indicated the franchise intends to keep the 27-year-old big man after his midseason arrival from Charlotte.
Richards was traded to Phoenix on January 15 in a deal that sent Josh Okogie and three second-round picks to the Hornets in exchange for Richards and one future second-rounder.
Following the move, Richards became a regular starter for the Suns, opening in 34 of his 36 appearances.
He averaged 9.5 points and 8.6 rebounds per game in 22.7 minutes while shooting 60.5 percent from the field during his time in Phoenix.
The Kentucky product gave the Suns consistent interior presence on both ends and finished the year with career highs in field goal percentage and free throw efficiency (.822).
Across the full 2024-25 season, including his earlier stint in Charlotte, Richards posted averages of 9.3 points, 8.1 rebounds, and 1.0 blocks per contest.
Phoenix, however, failed to qualify for the 2025 Play-In Tournament, finishing 11th in the Western Conference with a 36–46 record.
The 7-footer originally signed a three-year, $15 million extension with Charlotte in 2023 and remains under contract through next season.
