Suns Trade Jusuf Nurkic to Hornets for Cody Martin and Vasilije Micic
In a major roster move, the Phoenix Suns have traded center Jusuf Nurkic and a 2026 first-round pick to the Charlotte Hornets for swingman Cody Martin, guard Vasilije Micic, and a 2026 second-round pick.
Nurkic, who hadn’t played for the Suns since January 7, averaged 8.6 points and 9.2 rebounds per game this season. He was acquired by Phoenix last year from the Portland Trail Blazers in a three-team trade.
The 30-year-old had publicly expressed frustration with his role and relationship with coach Mike Budenholzer, who moved him to the bench in early January. “It’s hard to understand why,” Nurkic said last month about being benched. “As you know,I try to do whatever they want from me. I play my role or whatever,but at the end of the day,it’s the NBA.”
In return, the Suns acquire Martin, a defensive specialist who has spent his entire six-year career with Charlotte. The 29-year-old is known for his ability to guard opposing teams’ best perimeter players. martin has struggled as a shooter, but he provides defensive tenacity and a reliable presence.
Micic, a rising star who played several years in the EuroLeague before joining the NBA, figures to add offensive firepower to the Suns. The 28-year-old is in the final year of his contract and could become a free agent next season.
The trade also clears some cap space for the Suns, as Nurkic was making $18.1 million this season. This move cements Phoenix’s commitment to a younger, more versatile rotation for the remainder of the season and possibly beyond.
Will the Suns look to fill Nurkic’s center role through free agency or the draft, or are they confident in their existing frontcourt options?
Suns Trade Nurkic: Your Burning Questions answered
The Suns shook up their roster with a blockbuster trade, sending Jusuf Nurkic to Charlotte. Here’s what you need to know:
- Why did the suns trade Nurkic? Nurkic had been publicly unhappy with his role and relationship with Coach Mike Budenholzer. He was benched in early January, and his frustration grew over time.
- What did the Suns get in return? The Suns acquired Cody Martin, a solid defensive player, and Vasilije Micic, a promising young guard with scoring potential. They also received a 2026 second-round pick.
- Is Micic a key piece for the Suns’ future? Micic could be a valuable addition. He’s only 28 and is in the final year of his contract, making him a potential free agent target next season.
- How does this trade impact the suns’ cap space? Trading Nurkic, who was making $18.1 million, frees up significant cap space for the Suns. This could allow them to make more moves in the future.
This trade signals the Suns’ focus on building a younger, more versatile team for the future. It also highlights their willingness to make bold moves to improve their roster.
