The Charlotte Hornets are trading 7-foot center Nick Richards and one second-round pick to the Phoenix Suns for D’Tigers shooting guard Josh Okogie and three second-round picks, according to ESPN’s basketball insider Shams Charnaria.
Okogie, who joined the Suns in the summer of 2022, is averaging 6.0 points and 2.9 rebounds in 14.0 minutes over 25 games this season.
He is also shooting a career-best 38.1% from beyond the arc.
The 26-year-old has two years left on his current deal.
He is earning $8.25 million this season and is set to earn $7.7 million next season on a non-guaranteed contract.
Okogie provides defensive versatility with his ability to block shots and steal the ball, enhancing the Hornets’ perimeter defense.
His athleticism and rebounding skills add depth to the Hornets’ frontcourt rotation.
Okogie’s scoring ability, especially from beyond the arc, adds another dimension to the Hornets’ offensive game plan.
