The Phoenix Suns are currently looking to bolster their lineup as they prepare for a crucial matchup against the Sacramento Kings. Cody Martin, who has been sidelined since January 24 due to a sports hernia, is listed as questionable for his debut with the Suns after progressing through rehabilitation with the G League's Valley Suns. Nick Richards also finds himself in a similar position, as he recovers from a right ankle sprain, and is questionable after missing the last game. Meanwhile, Grayson Allen and Monte Morris are doubtful for the game, adding to the Suns' injury concerns. The Suns are currently 30-36, trailing behind the Dallas Mavericks for the final play-in spot in the Western Conference, as every game becomes increasingly pivotal.

The Charlotte Hornets have a crowded injury report ahead of their game against the Detroit Pistons, particularly concerning new acquisition Jusuf Nurkic, who is listed as questionable due to a pending trade. Nurkic's move comes after a tumultuous period with the Phoenix Suns, where he averaged 9 points and 9 rebounds this season before losing his starting role.

In exchange for Nurkic and a future first-round pick, the Hornets relinquished Cody Martin, Vasilije Micic, and a future second-round pick. If the trade finalizes, Nurkic could see significant playing time in Charlotte, marking his fourth NBA team since 2014, following stints with the Denver Nuggets, Portland Trail Blazers, and Suns.

The Charlotte Hornets made significant moves before the NBA Trade Deadline, acquiring future draft picks and reshaping their roster. Notable departures included Mark Williams, Nick Richards, Cody Martin, and Vasilije Micic, leading to a new starting lineup likely featuring Nick Smith Jr., Dalton Knecht, Josh Green, Miles Bridges, and Jusuf Nurkic. Their depth will come from players like Moussa Diabate and Cam Reddish, but with injuries, the lineup may evolve further.

Brandon Miller's absence will keep Knecht in the starting role until his return in 2025-26. The Hornets' recent trades echo last year's strategy of revamping their roster and gathering draft capital to build for the future. The front office's decision to pursue this path stems from an underwhelming performance even when healthy, indicating a clear intent to reinvigorate the team's dynamics.

In a surprising trade just before the deadline, the Charlotte Hornets sent Cody Martin and Vasilije Micic to the Phoenix Suns in exchange for Jusuf Nurkic and a first-round draft pick in 2026. This trade has generated a lot of buzz among analysts, who have given the Hornets high marks for their savvy moves. Analysts praised Charlotte's ability to turn lesser assets into a valuable player and a first-round pick, addressing their need for a starting center following Mark Williams' departure.

While some critics suggested the Hornets could have diversified their haul by dealing Martin and Micic separately, the consensus remains that this deal significantly bolsters the Hornets' roster. Nurkic’s acquisition fills an immediate gap at center and presents a better opportunity for young players like KJ Simpson and Dalton Knecht to gain experience. The trade has put Charlotte in a better position for the future, adding to their draft capital and potentially setting the stage for more moves.

The Phoenix Suns have executed a trade, sending 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. This move comes after Nurkic's struggle for playing time, as he has not seen action since early January and averaged only 8.6 points and 9.2 rebounds this season. The 30-year-old, who was previously acquired from the Portland Trail Blazers, was unhappy with his relationship with Suns coach Mike Budenholzer, expressing confusion about being benched after starting 23 games.

In contrast, Cody Martin, a 6-foot-6 wing who boasts a strong defensive reputation, has spent his entire six-year NBA career with the Hornets. Despite his defensive prowess, Martin has struggled with his shooting, averaging just 31.9% from three-point range. Vasilije Micic, a Euroleague star, is also part of the trade, entering the final guaranteed year of his contract.