Why the Suns’ Mike Budenholzer is ‘excited’ about the Nick Richards trade

Rebounding. The main question which Phoenix Suns head coach Mike Budenholzer and the rest of the team echoed. However, when The Suns traded Josh Okogie for Nick Richardssome of those problems might go away. The 7’0 big man averaged 8.9 points and 7.5 rebounds in 21 games this season.

Also, he started in eight games this season, and in five of them, he grabbed 10 or more rebounds. Physicality and much-needed rebounding are new sights for Phoenix. Before Thursday’s game against the Washington Wizards, Budenholzer explained more to AZCentral’s Duane Rankin about the former Charlotte Hornets a great man can provide.

“We are excited to add Nick and what he can bring to our team and how he can impact the game defensively around the rim,” Budenholzer said. “On the boards, at both ends of the field, the screen setter.” Only the 7 foot kind. Athleticism can always have an impact.”

Ever since the Suns put Jusuf Nurkic on the bench, the rebounding has drastically regressed. While Mason Plumlee and Oso Ighodaro have filled the role nicely, the team lacks that physicality. Furthermore, Nurkic’s paint presence was still respectable. Even with a low career field goal percentage and three-point percentage, they missed Nurkic.

Now Richards can replace what the Bosnian big man brought to the starting line-up. Both players are physical, but Richards dominates the interior. Additionally, his athleticism is excellent for point guard Tyus Jones. He hasn’t had a legitimate lob threat this season to make plays out of the pick-and-roll.

As the leader in assist-to-turnover ratio, a big man who can protect the paint is what the Suns have been looking for.

Mike Budenholzer likes what Nick Richards brings to the Suns

Before Phoenix bought Richards, they were headed in the wrong direction. They are ranked 25th in rebounds in the league with 42.4 per game. Interestingly, Richards’ 7.5 rebounds per game would be second most on the team. The only person in front of him? Nurkic.

With the constant rumors and losses for him, Richards could be thrust into the starting lineup. However, there may be a bit of an adjustment for him. He joins the team for Saturday’s game against the Detroit Pistons. Still, going from backup to starter is a tall order.

Even so, his rookie numbers suggest he’s ready for a role. The 27-year-old will also join a team that has gone through a lot of turmoil since the start of the New Year. Bradley Beal was subsequently added to Nurkic’s bench. During that time, among other things, trade rumors circulated among the teams.

However, the team has performed well since the switch. However, the glaring problem is recovery and physicality. Richards could be a temporary or permanent solution to the problem. Also, it wasn’t just Budenholzer who had positive reviews about the former Hornets great.

Sun ahead Kevin Durant reacted positively to the massive Richards trade. He emphasized his athleticism, physicality, rebounding and shot blocking. Almost all the same points as Budenholzer. These are all elements that Phoenix currently lacks at the center position.

Reports have come out that Richards will join the team in Detroit. It is uncertain whether he will suit up for the team, pending physicals and other information.

An infamous saying goes: Rome wasn’t built in a day. However, Richards’ ability could force the Suns to rebuild their rebounding issues in the moments since his arrival.