Nick Richards Shines in Suns Debut, Grabs 19 Rebounds in Win

PHOENIX, Ariz. — Nick Richards made a powerful statement in his Phoenix Suns home debut, dominating the paint with 20 points and a career-high 19 rebounds in a 119-109 victory over the Washington Wizards at the Footprint Center on Saturday. The 27-year-old center, acquired in a trade from the Charlotte Hornets on Jan. 15, has quickly become a key contributor for the Suns.

“Rebounding, for sure, is one of the things that coach (Mike Budenholzer) emphasized with being on our first meeting, trying my hardest,” Richards said after the game. His 19 rebounds marked the second-most in franchise history for a new Suns player’s home debut, trailing only Charles Barkley‘s 21 rebounds in 1992.

Richards nearly matched Barkley’s record but fell short in the closing seconds of the game. As the Wizards’ Kyle Kuzma missed a deep shot with 27 seconds left, Richards tripped while boxing out rookie Alex Sarr, allowing Devin Booker to secure the loose ball and seal the win. “I tried, man,” Booker joked in the locker room. “He ain’t want it, let the ball go off his hand, falling all over the floor. He’ll get it, though.”

Since joining the Suns, Richards has averaged 13.3 points, 12.2 rebounds, and 67.7% shooting in four games, a significant improvement over his stats with Charlotte earlier this season. His performance has been a bright spot for a team that ranked 25th in rebounding before his arrival. Phoenix has since climbed to fifth in rebounding and second in defensive boards during Richards’ tenure.

Despite his on-court success, Richards admitted he still feels like a nomad. “I don’t think I have the feeling of being home right now,” he said with a laugh. “I’m still living out of a suitcase in a hotel room.” However, his teammates and coaches have embraced him, praising his unselfishness and impact. “He’s trying to learn everything quickly,” Budenholzer said. “His length on the glass, to get 19 is impressive.”

Richards’ arrival has addressed the Suns’ need for size, youth, and athleticism in the middle. Kevin Durant, who scored a team-high 29 points against the Wizards, emphasized the importance of supporting Richards as he adjusts. “It’s going to be him trying to learn on the fly,” Durant said. “But he’s picking up things pretty quickly.”

While Richards has excelled against weaker opponents, his production has dipped against tougher competition. In games against Cleveland and the Los Angeles Clippers, he averaged just 5 points and 5.5 rebounds. Against the Clippers, he struggled to contain Ivica Zubac, who scored 17 points in less than six minutes while guarded by Richards.

Despite these challenges, Richards remains a valuable addition to the Suns’ roster. His athleticism and rebounding have provided a much-needed boost, and his teammates are confident he will continue to improve. “I think everybody’s just making my job really easy,” Richards said. “Just be yourself. Do what you do best, and you’re going to fit in right away.”