Hornets ship Miles Bridges to Suns in blockbuster NBA trade

The Phoenix Suns have landed veteran forward Miles Bridges in a blockbuster trade with the Charlotte Hornets, acquiring his scoring punch and defensive versatility in exchange for guards Grayson Allen and Royce O’Neale plus future draft capital. The deal, first reported by ESPN, sends Bridges, a protected 2029 first-round pick, and a second-round selection to Phoenix. In return, the Suns ship Allen, O’Neale, and a 2033 first-round pick to Charlotte.

The move reshapes both rosters: Phoenix bolsters its championship aspirations by adding Bridges to a core featuring Kevin Durant, Devin Booker, and Bradley Beal, while the Hornets double down on a long-term rebuild by swapping an expensive veteran for future assets. 7 assists per game last season for Charlotte, ranking among the league leaders in dunks and transition scoring. His arrival gives Phoenix another dynamic wing who can guard multiple positions and finish at the rim, addressing a need that persisted even with Durant and Beal on the roster.

For the Hornets, the haul—particularly the distant 2033 first—signals a clear bet on sustained rebuilding over short-term competitiveness. The trade also reflects a broader league trend where contenders chase high-upside wings to complement superstars, while rebuilding teams prioritize asset accumulation over win-now moves. Phoenix’s decision to part with O’Neale, a reliable three-and-D wing, underscores the Suns’ belief that Bridges’ offensive ceiling outweighs the defensive loss.

Meanwhile, Charlotte’s willingness to accept a pick so far in the future highlights its lack of urgency around immediate contention, a stance mirrored by other rebuilding franchises like the Pistons and Spurs. Adding Bridges to the Suns' roster not only enhances their offensive firepower but also creates a more versatile defensive scheme. Bridges’ ability to switch on defense and guard multiple positions allows Phoenix to adapt against various offensive strategies from opponents.

His athleticism complements the existing talents of Durant, Booker, and Beal, potentially creating mismatches that could be exploited in key playoff moments. This move signals that the Suns are all-in on maximizing their championship window while they have a superstar trio in their prime. On the flip side, this trade could redefine the Hornets' future.

By acquiring future draft picks, especially the 2033 first-rounder, Charlotte is betting on a long-term vision that prioritizes building a young core capable of competing in the future. This strategy reflects a shift in the NBA where teams are increasingly willing to endure short-term pain for long-term gain. The Hornets can now focus on developing young talent and potentially making strategic moves in the upcoming drafts, which could set them up for sustained success down the line.

Reaction to the deal has been swift. ” Analysts note that Phoenix now has the positional depth to match up with the league’s elite, but Bridges’ contract (three years, $75 million remaining) carries long-term risk if injuries or regression strike. What’s next: Phoenix will integrate Bridges into its rotation for the 2024-25 season, with training camp looming.

Charlotte, meanwhile, will pivot to the draft and free agency, using its newfound cap space to target young talent while monitoring the 2033 pick’s protections. Read at ESPN