Suns acquire possible Knicks target Nick Richards in trade with Hornets

The Knicks can cross one potential trade target off their list for now.The Suns acquired center Nick Richards in a trade with the Hornets on Wednesday, according to multiple reports.Phoenix also picked up a 2026 second-round pick and a 2031 third-rounder in the deal while Charlotte got a 2025 second-round selection.The 7-footer had provided the Hornets with strong depth this season with 8.9 points, 7.5 rebounds and 1.3 assists over 21 minutes per game.He’ll join a Suns team that’s 19-20 and is on the cusp of playoffs in 11th place in the Western Conference.

As far back as September — before the Knicks acquired Karl-Anthony Towns from the Timberwolves — Richards was viewed as a potential Knicks target, SNY reported.The Knicks have been without solid depth big men this season after Isaiah Hartenstein departed for a three-year, $87 million with the Thunder.Behind Karl-Anthony Towns, who himself is dealing with a thumb sprain and bone chip, Mitchell Robinson has yet to play a game this season after recovering from ankle surgery.Head coach Tom Thibodeau did say, however, that Robinson is on track to practice in January.

In Wednesday’s overtime win over the 76ers, Jericho Sims (23 minutes) and Precious Achiuwa (30 minutes) split time.The two combined for 18 points and 13 rebounds.Sims, though, is being shopped before the Feb.6 trade deadline, The Post’s Stefan Bondy reported earlier this week — even as the team actively looks to improve its frontcourt.

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