The Suns drama between Jusuf Nurkic and Mike Budenholzer had some interesting analysis from DeMarcus Cousins about Nurkic's role.

Jusuf Nurkic doesn't think that he will be traded from the Phoenix Suns ahead of the deadline, and he has a reason.

The 27-year-old Richards, who is averaging 8.9 points and 7.5 rebounds per game this season, could be the Suns' new starting center.

The addition of Richards is a sign the Suns are still going for it this season, as they still have the big three of Kevin Durant, Devin Booker and Bradley Beal in place. The trio has had to help out in terms of the team's big man responsibilities, and now there's a chance they can scale back on such endeavors and focus more on offensive output.

In the move, the Suns acquired Richards and a second-round pick from the Hornets for Josh Okogie and three second-round picks. This was a solid trade for Phoenix as they not only added a solid new center for cheap, but they also freed up cap space in the move.

Phoenix Suns center Jusuf Nurkic hasn't played since Jan. 7 at Charlotte but was available for Saurday's game.

Multi-time All-Stars and 2024 Olympians Jewell Loyd and Kelsey Plum are changing locations in a massive three-team deal that will send Loyd to the Las Vegas Aces, Plum to the Los Angeles Sparks and a collection of assets to the Seattle Storm that includes the No. 2 pick in the upcoming draft.

The struggling Nurkic has gone from the starting center to a benchwarmer in the space of about a month. Coach Mike Budenholzer doesn’t seem like he’s going to reverse that decision any time soon — especially with the Suns winning eight of their last 11 games and the emergence of newcomer Nick Richards .

The Phoenix Suns returning 3-2 after a five-game road trip are expected to be at full strength Saturday against the Washington Wizards as Jusuf Nurkić (reconditioning) and Bradley Beal (probable, left ankle sprain) return to the lineup.

Phoenix Suns guard Bradley Beal and big Jusuf Nurkic practiced Friday heading into Saturday’s rematch against the Washington Wizards at Footprint Center to begin a three-game homestand.

Many have gone even further when critiquing this season - with some essentially calling it an objective failure to this point. Dan Favale of Bleacher Report gave every single team a letter grade at the official halfway point of the season - and the Suns were given an undeniably poor mark.