Fri Feb 06 05:00:00 UTC 2026: ### Bucks Quickly Waive Nigel Hayes-Davis After Three-Team Trade
The Story:
Just hours after acquiring forward Nigel Hayes-Davis as part of a three-team trade, the Milwaukee Bucks have requested waivers on him, according to a team press release on February 5, 2026. Hayes-Davis, who returned to the NBA with the Phoenix Suns in 2025 after a successful stint in the EuroLeague, saw limited playing time in Phoenix. This move by the Bucks suggests that their primary interest in the trade was acquiring Ousmane Dieng.
Key Points:
- The Milwaukee Bucks acquired Nigel Hayes-Davis via a three-team trade but immediately requested waivers on him.
- Hayes-Davis returned to the NBA with the Phoenix Suns in 2025 after playing in Europe where he led Fenerbahce to a EuroLeague title.
- He averaged just 7.2 minutes per game in 27 appearances for the Suns, scoring 1.3 points and grabbing 1.2 rebounds per contest.
- The Bucks traded Cole Anthony and Amir Coffey for Ousmane Dieng and Hayes-Davis.
- Hayes-Davis is eligible to sign a two-way contract but cannot rejoin the Suns.
Critical Analysis:
The speed at which the Bucks waived Hayes-Davis after the trade indicates that he was likely included to facilitate the deal, either for salary matching purposes or to satisfy trade requirements with the Suns. The Bucks’ eagerness to acquire Ousmane Dieng is evident in their willingness to take on Hayes-Davis’ contract only to waive him immediately. This signals that they have high hopes for Dieng.
Key Takeaways:
- Nigel Hayes-Davis’ NBA return proved short-lived.
- The Milwaukee Bucks prioritized acquiring Ousmane Dieng in the three-team trade.
- The move suggests the Bucks have a clear plan for Dieng and see him as a valuable addition to their roster.
- Hayes-Davis may return to Europe or seek another opportunity in the NBA.
- Teams often use trades to acquire specific players even if it means temporarily taking on other players only to release them later.
First Piper 