© Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
PHOENIX — The Milwaukee Bucks have already made a decision on one of the players they acquired from the Phoenix Suns, a move that could ultimately send him back to the EuroLeague.
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Nov 29, 2025; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Phoenix Suns forward Nigel Hayes-Davis (21) against the Denver Nuggets in the first half at the Mortgage Matchup Center. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
According to Underdog NBA, the Bucks have waived forward Nigel Hayes-Davis after he was sent to Milwaukee from Phoenix. The move effectively ends Hayes-Davis’ immediate path back to the NBA and reopens the possibility of a return to Europe, where he has built one of the most accomplished résumés in the EuroLeague.
For the Suns, the decision was rooted in flexibility. Phoenix created additional roster and financial breathing room as it continues reshaping a team built around star guard Devin Booker. While Hayes-Davis provided veteran experience and briefly joined a group that developed chemistry quickly, the Suns prioritized acquiring the depth necessary to remain a consistent postseason contender.
Jan 27, 2026; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Phoenix Suns forward Nigel Hayes-Davis (21) drives to the basket against Brooklyn Nets forward Ziaire Williams (1) in the first half at Mortgage Matchup Center. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
Hayes-Davis arrived in the Valley last summer, signing as a free agent after a standout season with Fenerbahce. He returned to the NBA following a dominant EuroLeague campaign in which he was named the 2025 Final Four MVP.
Last season in Europe, Hayes-Davis averaged 16.7 points on 45.6% shooting from the field and 41.0% from three-point range, along with 5.3 rebounds and 1.1 steals across 39 EuroLeague regular-season games.
His NBA role, however, was limited. Hayes-Davis appeared in 27 games, averaging 7.2 minutes per contest, as he struggled to carve out a consistent spot in a crowded rotation.
Nov 28, 2025; Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, USA; Phoenix Suns forward Nigel Hayes-Davis (21) fouls Oklahoma City Thunder guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (2) during the second half at Paycom Center. Mandatory Credit: Alonzo Adams-Imagn Images
Now, according to a report from Eurohoops’ Aris Barkas, Hayes-Davis is exploring a return to the EuroLeague and is seeking to become the league’s highest-paid player on a multiyear deal. His reported asking price would set a new benchmark, exceeding the $5.6 million annual contract signed by Vasilije Micic with Hapoel Tel Aviv.
Fenerbahce, Panathinaikos and Hapoel Tel Aviv have already contacted Hayes-Davis’ representatives and have been informed of his demands. While additional teams could enter the mix, those three clubs are currently viewed as the most capable — at least in theory — of meeting his financial expectations.
Two players, Kendrick Nunn and Vasilije Micic, are currently over the $5M mark net annually in the #EuroLeague https://t.co/06VfmOmyqR
— Aris Barkas (@arbarkas) February 6, 2026
Nothing is finalized, and the waiver remains fresh. But if early reports are any indication, Hayes-Davis’ basketball journey is far from over, even if his value in Europe now appears significantly higher than before his brief NBA return.
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Wendy Lopez is a reporter for Burn City Sports. You can follow her on her X account, @wlopezde
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