The Phoenix Suns have completed a major trade ahead of the NBA trade deadline, sending center Jusuf Nurkic and a 2026 first-round draft pick to the Charlotte Hornets. In return, the Suns will receive shooting guard Cody Martin, Serbian point guard Vasilije Micic and a 2026 second-round pick.
This strategic move by the Suns aims to strengthen their perimeter rotation and improve the depth of their roster, while also getting rid of Nurkic’s contract, who has not played since January 7 and apparently did not fit into the coaching staff’s plans. With the arrival of Martin and Micic, Phoenix adds versatility on the perimeter, something that is key for a team looking to improve its performance in the second half of the season.
The Hornets, meanwhile, acquire Nurkic in an attempt to shore up their interior play, especially after the departure of Mark Williams. The Bosnian center is averaging 8.6 points and 9.2 rebounds per game this season and could play a key role in Charlotte’s paint, bringing experience and defensive presence.
This trade reflects the opposite strategies of both franchises: while the Suns are looking for balance in their roster to enhance their playoff aspirations, the Hornets are looking to strengthen their core with a solid interior presence. Only time will tell which of the two teams got the better of this transaction.
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