Suns Build With Miles Bridges Trade Whils Hornets Look To The Future

by Alexander BumbJuly 3, 2026, 2:04 pm >

After Miles Bridges was traded to the Phoenix Suns, the Charlotte Hornets continued their dramatic offseason overhaul—first trading veteran forward Bridges to the Suns, then sending LaMelo Ball to the Minnesota Timberwolves.

The Suns sent a 2029 first-round pick and a 2027 second-round pick to Charlotte for Bridges. In return, the Hornets received veteran wings Grayson Allen and Royce O’Neale, along with an unprotected 2033 first-round pick.

For Phoenix, the trade addresses one of its biggest needs.

The Suns have been searching for an athletic power forward who can score, defend multiple positions and play alongside their young core. Bridges, 28, averaged more than 20 points per game last season and gives Phoenix another versatile offensive weapon as they look to remain contenders in the Western Conference. The conference is highly competitive, and team executives have reportedly pursued Bridges in previous seasons before finally completing a deal this summer.

The NBA offseason has been chaotic, but by moving Allen and O’Neale, Phoenix reportedly saves $20 million in luxury tax payments while creating additional roster flexibility. The Suns also regained future flexibility that could allow them to pursue a major move later this offseason.

Bridges spent his entire NBA career with the Hornets after being selected in the first round of the 2018 NBA Draft. He developed into one of the franchise’s top scorers, but with Ball already traded and the organization shifting toward younger players such as Brandon Miller and Kon Knueppel, a rebuild is underway.

This trade has generated mixed reactions across the league. Some analysts believe Phoenix acquired the best player in the deal, strengthening their starting lineup, while others question whether the unprotected first-round pick will be a factor in 2033.

For Bridges, the move provides a fresh opportunity with a playoff contender, while Charlotte can reinforce its youth and draft capital. As the NBA offseason continues, both franchises are betting this trade will help position them for long-term success, even as they pursue very different timelines.