PHOENIX – The Phoenix Suns gave up a massive haul for former Charlotte Hornets forward Miles Bridges, and the franchise reportedly expects big things. ESPN’s Brian Windhorst on his podcast The Hoop Collective discuss what Phoenix expectations are for the 28-year-old. Entering the final year of his contract, Windhorst believes the Suns are going to get him pay and make him integral part of the team’s scheme.
Mar 19, 2026; Charlotte, North Carolina, USA; Charlotte Hornets forward Miles Bridges (0) smiles as he lines up for a free throw during the third quarter against the Orlando Magic at Spectrum Center. Mandatory Credit: Brian Westerholt-Imagn Images
Windhorst on Bridges future in Valley looking strong:
Bridges could be extended at anytime, but both sides will likely wait till next offseason. The franchise’s money situation is quite murky for next Summer with all the new contracts given out recently. The 6’7 forward isn’t the only one looking for a new deal, as Jalen Green is eligible for an extension. Green has a $36 million player option for 2027-2028, but a long-term contract would be more ideal for the 24-year-old.
Despite going to have to give big money to Bridges and Green soon, the front office seems determined to get it done. Trades will need to happen in order to achieve that goal, but owner Mat Ishbia and general manager Brian Gregory haven’t been scared to pull the trigger on any trades.
Oct 29, 2025; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Phoenix Suns owner Mat Ishbia against the Memphis Grizzlies at the Mortgage Matchup Center. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
The most shocking part of Windhorst’s report is Bridges expected to have a big role. The Suns offense already has a huge part carved out for Devin Booker, Dillon Brooks and Green. Adding a 17 point a game scorer to the roster could jumble up that system, and it doesn’t help Bridges isn’t a stellar three-point shooter to help space the floor.
Charlotte did play similar pace as Phoenix last season, and head coach Jordan Ott did a stellar job of inserting guys off the bench into the rotation effectively. The problem early on for Ott will be finding lineups that play to all his ballhandlers strengths, which if Bridges is given a big role, might be challenging for a young head coach.
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Reporter Tanner Tortorella covers general assignment for Burn City Sports. You can follow him on his X account, @TannerTSports
