Phoenix Suns Trade Jusuf Nurkic to Charlotte Hornets for Cody Martin and Future Picks
The Phoenix Suns have officially traded center Jusuf Nurkic to the Charlotte Hornets. The deal, reported by ESPN's Shams Charania, includes the Suns sending Nurkic along with a 2026 first-round pick to Charlotte in exchange for Caleb Martin, Vasilije Micic, and a 2026 second-round pick. This move comes as part of the Suns' efforts to realign their roster after a challenging season for Nurkic in Phoenix.
Jusuf Nurkic, who stands at 7 feet tall, has had a tumultuous time with the Suns. After starting the season strong as a regular starter, he transitioned to a bench role early in January, where he recorded averages of 8.6 points and 9.2 rebounds per game. Nurkic was initially acquired by the Suns from the Portland Trail Blazers in a three-team trade prior to the 2023-24 season, where he played 76 games and averaged 10.9 points and 11.0 rebounds per contest. His contract, worth $18.1 million this season, is in the final year of a four-year, $70 million deal signed in Portland.
On the other side, Cody Martin has spent his entire NBA career with the Charlotte Hornets since being drafted in 2019. At 6 feet 6 inches, Martin is known for his defensive prowess, often assigned to guard the opposing team's top scorers, although he has had challenges with his shooting, averaging just 31.9% from beyond the arc throughout his career. His current contract, which runs through the next season, is valued at approximately $8.6 million.
- Trade Details:
- Jusuf Nurkic and a 2026 first-round pick to the Charlotte Hornets.
- Cody Martin, Vasilije Micic, and a 2026 second-round pick to the Phoenix Suns.
- Nurkic's Performance:
- 8.6 points and 9.2 rebounds per game this season.
- Acquired via a three-team trade from Portland before the 2023-24 season.
- Martin's Background:
- Drafted 36th overall in 2019 by the Hornets.
- Known for strong defensive abilities despite shooting struggles.