The Charlotte Hornets continued reshaping their roster this offseason by parting ways with two of the franchise’s longest-serving players. Among the biggest moves was the decision to trade veteran forward Miles Bridges to the Phoenix Suns, signaling another step in the organization’s evolving direction.
Bridges was dealt to Phoenix in a package that brought veteran wings Grayson Allen and Royce O’Neale to Charlotte. With Bridges entering the final season of his contract, the Hornets elected to move the former first-round pick rather than risk losing him without receiving assets in return.
The trade brings an end to Bridges’ lengthy association with the franchise that began on draft night in 2018. Although he was initially selected by the Los Angeles Clippers, he was immediately acquired by Charlotte in a deal that ultimately made the Hornets his NBA home for nearly eight years.
Following confirmation of the trade, Bridges took to social media to express his appreciation for the city, the organization and the fans who supported him throughout his career. His message reflected both gratitude for the opportunities he received and the emotions that come with leaving the only NBA team he had known.
1. Bridges Shares His Appreciation
Shortly after the trade became official, Bridges posted a heartfelt farewell message thanking everyone connected to the Hornets organization. He reflected on being welcomed by Charlotte from the moment he arrived as a rookie and acknowledged the support he received throughout his career.
The veteran forward expressed gratitude to coaches, teammates, front-office personnel and team staff who played a role in his development. Above all, he thanked the fans, saying their encouragement helped make Charlotte feel like home during his years with the franchise.
Bridges also emphasized that the city and the state of North Carolina would always occupy a meaningful place in his life. While his basketball journey is continuing elsewhere, he made it clear that the relationships and memories built over the years would remain important to him.
For many players, leaving the organization that drafted—or in Bridges’ case, acquired them on draft night—marks a significant career milestone. His farewell message underscored the personal side of a business decision that ultimately reshaped both his future and the Hornets’ roster.
2. A Productive Yet Complicated Hornets Career
During his time in Charlotte, Bridges developed into one of the team’s most productive players. Across seven active NBA seasons with the Hornets, he averaged 17.1 points, 5.8 rebounds and 3.2 assists while becoming a consistent contributor on both ends of the floor.
His athleticism, versatility and scoring ability made him an important part of Charlotte’s lineup for several years. As his game matured, Bridges increasingly took on leadership responsibilities within a relatively young roster and became one of the team’s most experienced players.
At the same time, his tenure was not without significant challenges. Bridges missed the entire 2022-23 season while dealing with legal matters related to a domestic violence case, an issue that generated widespread public attention and divided opinion among fans throughout the league.
Despite those off-court circumstances, Bridges eventually returned to the Hornets and regained a meaningful role within the team. According to reports, he remained a respected presence inside the locker room as the organization worked through multiple rebuilding seasons.
3. New Chapters for Bridges and Charlotte
For Phoenix, acquiring Bridges adds another experienced forward capable of contributing on both offense and defense. His versatility provides the Suns with additional lineup flexibility as they continue building a roster capable of competing in the Western Conference.
Charlotte, meanwhile, gains veteran contributors in Allen and O’Neale while continuing to reshape its roster for the future. The Hornets’ recent personnel moves suggest the franchise is committed to establishing a new identity after several seasons of inconsistency.
The departures of Bridges and LaMelo Ball mark the end of an era for Charlotte. Both players spent years serving as recognizable faces of the organization, and their exits represent a significant transition as the team moves into its next phase.
Although Bridges now begins a fresh chapter with the Suns, his farewell message made clear that his connection to Charlotte extends beyond basketball. Regardless of what lies ahead in Phoenix, his years with the Hornets will remain a defining part of his NBA journey.