The deal marks the second time Williams has been traded in the calendar year of 2025. In February, he was dealt to the Los Angeles Lakers in a deadline blockbuster, but after he failed his physical, the Lakers elected to rescind the deal out of fear of his long-term health.

The Suns will send Vasilije Micić, the 29th overall pick of this year’s Draft (used to select Liam McNeeley of Connecticut) and a 2029 draft pick (the least favorable of Cleveland, Utah and Minnesota) to the Hornets.

The Suns made the deal on the same night they selected 18-year-old Duke center Khaman Maluach with the No. 10 pick in the draft acquired from the Houston Rockets in the Kevin Durant trade. Within a matter of minutes, the Suns added a pair of young Duke centers to their roster.