PHOENIX — The Phoenix Suns made their first deadline move of the season on Thursday, but it was a decision that did more than simply add depth.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!This trade by the Suns will almost certainly create a spot for Jamaree Bouyea in the near future.
— John Gambadoro (@Gambo987) February 5, 2026
According to ESPN’s Shams Charania, the Suns traded Nick Richards and Nigel Hayes-Davis to the Milwaukee Bucks in exchange for guards Cole Anthony and Amir Coffey. The maneuver frees up Richards’ $5 million salary, which would put the Suns under the luxury tax threshold.
Jan 27, 2026; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Phoenix Suns guard Jamaree Bouyea (17) against the Brooklyn Nets in the first half at Mortgage Matchup Center. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
That flexibility plays in Phoenix’s favor, as the team can now convert Jamaree Bouyea’s two-way contract into a standard contract. Arizona Sports’ John Gambadoro reports the club will “almost certainly” create a roster spot for him in the near future.
Bouyea signed his current contract in November, splitting time between the Suns and the G League. In his limited NBA opportunities, he has shown promising scoring and playmaking ability, helping Phoenix during its surge over the past few months.
This season, Bouyea is averaging 7.0 points, 1.9 rebounds, and 1.6 assists while shooting 51.4% from the field.
Jan 30, 2026; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Phoenix Suns guard Jamaree Bouyea (17) blocks the shot of Cleveland Cavaliers guard Sam Merrill (5) in the second half at Mortgage Matchup Center. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
The timing of the move is essential to what Phoenix is building right now. By staying under the tax line, the Suns can secure a roster spot for a player who has begun to break out and provide valuable minutes during the most important stretch of the season.
Phoenix continues to mold a roster that balances competitiveness with financial flexibility. Signing Bouyea to a standard contract would reward a player within an organization that has consistently valued development and perseverance while maintaining flexibility for future moves.
Feb 3, 2026; Portland, Oregon, USA; Portland Trail Blazers guard Caleb Love (2) defends Phoenix Suns guard Jamaree Bouyea (17) during the second half at Moda Center. Mandatory Credit: Jaime Valdez-Imagn Images
While the headline will focus on those who were traded, Bouyea’s emergence as an important depth piece — and the potential of a standard contract — will be another move worth keeping an eye on.
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Wendy Lopez is a reporter for Burn City Sports. You can follow her on her X account, @wlopezde
