Nick Richards is no longer with the Charlotte Hornets. The 27-year-old big man had been the center of countless mock trades and rumors, and the Hornets unofficially opened the floodgates for trades by parting ways with the former Kentucky Wildcat.

The Phoenix Suns acquired center Nick Richards and a second-round pick in 2025 from the Charlotte Hornets for guard Josh Okogie and three future second-round draft picks Wednesday night. Charlotte receives second-round draft picks from the Denver Nuggets in 2026 and 2031,

The Suns’ front office will need to be strategic in their approach, balancing the desire to acquire Butler with the need to maintain a competitive roster.