The Phoenix Suns have traded center Jusuf Nurkic and a 2026 first-round pick to the Charlotte Hornets in exchange for Cody Martin, Vasilije Micic, and a 2026 second-round pick. The deal, reported by NBA insider Shams Charania, marks a shift in Phoenix’s roster construction as they aim to improve depth.
Nurkic, who joined the Suns last season, has been a reliable presence in the frontcourt. The 30-year-old is averaging 8.6 points, 9.2 rebounds, and 1.9 assists per game while playing 23.7 minutes per contest. However, Phoenix has struggled with consistency and currently holds a 25-25 record, placing them 10th in the Western Conference.
Charlotte, sitting 14th in the East at 12-36, adds Nurkic to bolster its frontcourt. With a physical playing style and strong rebounding ability, the veteran big man is expected to provide stability to a young Hornets squad. Nurkic is in the third year of a four-year, $70 million contract, giving Charlotte long-term control over his future.
The Suns, in return, acquire Martin and Micic, two versatile players who add depth to their rotation. Martin, a 6-foot-6 forward, is averaging 7.8 points, 4.5 rebounds, and 2.3 assists in 24.8 minutes per game. He is in the third year of a four-year, $31 million deal.
Micic, a two-time EuroLeague champion, brings additional playmaking and scoring off the bench. The Serbian guard is averaging 7.5 points, 2.4 rebounds, and 3.5 assists in 21.2 minutes per game. His contract runs through 2026, with the final year being a team option.
