Suns Acquire Miles Bridges from Hornets

The Charlotte Hornets traded veteran forward Miles Bridges to the Phoenix Suns, along with a 2029 first-round pick and a 2027 second-round pick, according to sources. In exchange, the Hornets received Grayson Allen, Royce O'Neale, and a future unprotected first-round pick in 2033. This deal represents the second significant trade the Hornets executed within three days, following their trade of All-Star point guard LaMelo Ball to the Minnesota Timberwolves on Thursday.

Bridges had a substantial impact during the last season, contributing to the Hornets' efforts to nearly reach the playoffs for the first time since 2016. His leadership was pivotal for a young roster that included LaMelo Ball, Brandon Miller, and rookie Kon Knueppel. The Hornets saw a remarkable improvement last season, finishing with 44 wins after a dismal 19 wins the previous year—turning around a tough start of 11-23 on January 2 to secure 32 victories in their final 45 games. By the end of the regular season, Bridges helped lead the team to rank first in offense and fifth in defense in the NBA, averaging 17.1 points and 5.8 rebounds per game despite a decrease in usage.

With Bridges on board, the Suns made a strategic move by saving approximately $20 million in luxury tax and creating roster space as they enter free agency. The Hornets bolstered their lineup with the acquisitions of veterans Allen and O'Neale, alongside the unprotected first-round pick from the Suns for 2033. Meanwhile, the first-round pick sent out by the Hornets in this trade is projected to be the least favorable choice from among Charlotte, Utah, Cleveland, or Minnesota in 2029.

Bridges has spent his entire career with the Hornets, having been drafted from Michigan State and traded by the Los Angeles Clippers. His transition to the Suns ties him to a franchise with numerous connections to Michigan State, including owner Mat Ishbia, general manager Brian Gregory, and head coach Jordan Ott. It is noteworthy that Bridges sat out the entirety of the 2022-23 season as well as part of the 2023-24 season due to a suspension following a plea of no contest to a felony charge of domestic abuse. He still has one year remaining on the free agent contract he signed in 2024.