Thu Feb 06 18:20:00 UTC 2025: ## Blazers Center Jusuf Nurkic Traded to Charlotte Hornets
**Charlotte, NC –** Former Portland Trail Blazers center Jusuf Nurkic is heading to the Charlotte Hornets in a three-team trade, ESPN’s Shams Charania reports. The Phoenix Suns, who acquired Nurkic earlier this season, are sending him, along with a 2026 first-round pick, to Charlotte in exchange for Cody Martin, Vasilije Micic, and a 2026 second-round pick.
Nurkic’s time in Phoenix was short-lived and reportedly strained. He fell out of favor with head coach Mike Budenholzer and struggled to find consistent playing time. His statistics this season reflected this, with averages of just 8.6 points, 9.2 rebounds, 0.6 blocks, and 1.9 assists on 45% shooting in 25 games. This represents a significant drop-off from his performance as a starter with the Blazers, beginning in 2017. The trade marks a fresh start for the veteran center in Charlotte.
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