Milwaukee Makes Bold Trade Deadline Move for Nick Richards
The Milwaukee Bucks have agreed to trade Cole Anthony and Amir Coffey to the Phoenix Suns for Nick Richards and Nigel Hayes-Davis, according to ESPN’s Shams Charania on February 5, 2026. The move signals the Bucks’ commitment to reinforcing their roster around Giannis Antetokounmpo as the franchise looks to remain competitive for the remainder of the season.
Why the Bucks Made the Move
The Cole Anthony experiment with the Bucks has come to an end after just a few months. Milwaukee signed Anthony in the offseason hoping to bolster their pick-and-roll offense with Giannis as the screener, but the young point guard struggled to find consistent rhythm. Through 35 games as the team’s backup point guard, Anthony averaged 7 points, 3.5 assists, 2.5 rebounds, and shot just 31% from three-point range.
The emergence of Ryan Rollins as a legitimate breakout player has also diminished Anthony’s role for the franchise. By moving on from both Anthony and Amir Coffey’s expiring contracts, the Bucks have freed up roster flexibility while acquiring defensive-minded contributors.
What the Bucks Get in Return
Nick Richards brings rim-rolling ability and elite rim protection to Milwaukee’s frontcourt. From 2023-2025, Richards scored at a 68% true shooting percentage with a 17 player efficiency rating while rebounding 25% of his team’s defensive boards. Nigel Hayes-Davis provides additional switchability at the forward position, adding defensive versatility that could pair effectively with Antetokounmpo.
The incoming defenders are expected to invigorate Milwaukee’s defensive energy, a critical need for a Bucks squad looking to make a playoff push. While neither Richards nor Hayes-Davis were highly coveted around the league, both offer the defensive-first approach and energy Milwaukee needs down the stretch.
What’s Next for Milwaukee
The Bucks may not be finished making moves at the trade deadline. Fans are hoping the front office can leverage additional salary flexibility to strengthen the roster further and keep their superstar engaged through the postseason.
