NURKIC HEADS TO THE HORNETS
The Charlotte Hornets acquired center Jusuf Nurkic and a first-round draft pick in 2026 from the Phoenix Suns for forward/guard Cody Martin, guard Vasilije Micic and a second-round draft pick in 2026.
What does it give the Charlotte Hornets
After trading away Mark Williams, the Hornets decided to bring in a veteran replacement in Nurkic. They also received a first-rounder in '26 in this trade, so they did well under the circumstances. Nurkic is 30 years old but he might carve out an interesting role with the Hornets this season.
What does it give the Phoenix Suns
The Suns were likely to move on from Nurkic, since he had lost his place in the team's rotation earlier in 2024-25. Martin is a versatile wing player who might help Phoenix immediately, while Micic is a natural point guard who could struggle to get playing time with the Suns, a team dominated by its guard play.
Fantasy impact
Nurkic can be safely added in many leagues again, since he is expected to play a role with the Hornets (which was not the case anymore in Phoenix). Martin and Micic are less likely to make a fantasy impact with the Suns, so they can be ignored.
