NBA

Hornets receive: SF Josh Okogie and three second-round picks

Suns receive: C Nick Richards and second-round pick

After canvassing the market regarding Richards, this is the offer the Hornets settled on? Yes, netting two second-round picks is decent business, but not while swapping Richards for Okogie. Richards, while far from elite, should assume the starting center job in Phoenix quickly, while Okogie is simply a bit piece. There’s more, as Richards is on a below-market deal, while Okogie is due $16 million combined between this season and next.

Outside of acquiring the aforementioned two second-round selections, it’s unclear what the Hornets were thinking regarding this transaction. Phoenix, on the other hand, made out well. Richards, a steadying presence at center, is averaging 8.9 points and 7.5 rebounds per game this season. The 27-year-old will probably close games sooner rather than later for the Suns.

Hornets Grade: C-

Suns Grade: B