The Charlotte Hornets have officially traded Mark Williams to the Phoenix Suns, finalizing a deal that was fraught with challenges, including failed physicals and rescinded agreements. This trade marks a pivotal moment in Charlotte's rebuilding process, allowing fans to focus on a more promising future. In return, the Hornets secured a 2029 first-round pick, veteran point guard Vasilije Micic, and top prospect Liam McNeeley, who was taken 29th overall in the 2025 NBA Draft.

Williams, once viewed as the franchise's cornerstone, was part of a complex trade saga that also included earlier failed attempts to move him. The new front office under Jeff Peterson has effectively turned a congested frontcourt situation into a strategic stockpile of assets, creating optimism among Hornets supporters. With this trade, Charlotte appears to be embracing a long-term vision aimed at moving beyond mediocrity.

The 2025 NBA Draft concluded with 59 players selected, followed by the start of free agency for undrafted prospects. Summer League action is set to kick off on July 5, featuring multiple sessions in California and Salt Lake City before the main event at UNLV from July 10-20.

Teams are finalizing their rosters, with many new names expected to showcase their skills. Fan favorites like LaMelo Ball and Kevin Love will be present, along with fresh talent like Cooper Flagg and Brandon Miller. This year's Summer League promises to be a proving ground for upcoming stars and a chance for teams to evaluate their future.

On Sunday, the Charlotte Hornets executed a strategic trade, sending center Jusuf Nurkic to the Utah Jazz in exchange for guard Collin Sexton and a 2030 second-round pick. Though the immediate impact may seem minimal, both franchises stand to benefit from this move. The Jazz bolster their frontcourt with Nurkic, a traditional big, while Charlotte enhances its backcourt depth with Sexton, further supporting stars LaMelo Ball and Brandon Miller.

This trade reflects a shift for Charlotte, emphasizing a dynamic scoring capacity across multiple positions. While Sexton’s role is not to be a primary playmaker, his scoring ability can provide crucial support should Ball or Miller be sidelined. However, losing Nurkic creates a gap in Charlotte’s frontcourt, necessitating a potential shift toward small-ball strategies.

Collin Sexton has been traded from the Utah Jazz to the Charlotte Hornets, marking his transfer to a third NBA team. This move comes as the Jazz acquire center Jusuf Nurkic in exchange. Selected eighth overall by the Cleveland Cavaliers in 2018, Sexton has consistently shown his scoring capabilities, averaging over 18 points per game in recent seasons. With one year and $19 million left on his contract, he will join a Hornets team that includes rising star LaMelo Ball and 2023 draft pick Brandon Miller.

As a freshman at Alabama, Sexton played a pivotal role in leading the Crimson Tide to their first NCAA tournament in six years, showcasing the talent that justified his high draft pick. As he transitions to Charlotte, Sexton aims to contribute significantly alongside established players, potentially boosting his stats and value as he approaches free agency next summer.

The Charlotte Hornets have successfully bolstered their backcourt by acquiring Collin Sexton from the Utah Jazz in exchange for Jusuf Nurkic and a 2030 second-round pick. This trade addresses the Hornets' need for guard depth, allowing LaMelo Ball to lead alongside rookie Kon Knueppel and Brandon Miller. Sexton, making $19.2 million next season, is a versatile combo guard who can step in as needed.

For the Jazz, this deal clears the path for newly drafted players Ace Bailey and Walter Clayton Jr., as they continue their rebuilding phase. With Walker Kessler expected to take on a central role at center, Nurkic’s expiring $19.4 million contract could lead to another trade before the deadline. Overall, this trade signifies strategic moves for both teams in their respective journeys for success.