The Phoenix Suns did make a move earlier today, sending out Nigel Hayes-Davis and Nick Richards in a deal with the Milwaukee Bucks. That transaction has since expanded into a three-team framework, adding another layer to the shuffle.
The added wrinkle brings Ousmane Dieng into the mix. He ends up in Milwaukee after a whirlwind stretch that saw him moved three times in two days. From Oklahoma City to Charlotte in the Mason Plumlee deal. From Charlotte to Chicago as part of the Collin Sexton for Coby White swap. And now, from Chicago to the Bucks. The league moves fast. Dieng moved faster.
Nick Richards, meanwhile, heads to Chicago.
Richards appeared in 64 games for the Suns over the past year, starting 36 of them. He averaged 6.7 points and 6.2 rebounds during his time in Phoenix, but his role steadily shrank, and he ultimately fell out of the rotation. His departure creates a clear opening for rookie Khaman Maluach. He now has an opportunity to step into a larger role if and when the third center spot is needed.
There is also a bit of schedule symmetry here. The Suns will see Richards again soon. Twice, in fact. First on March 5 in Phoenix. Then April 5 in Chicago.
That is how trade deadline week works. Pieces move. Roles change. And for Phoenix, this one quietly clears space without disrupting the core of what they are trying to build.
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