The NBA offseason has produced a notable trade, as the have sent guard Collin Sexton and a 2030 second-round draft pick to the Charlotte Hornets in exchange for center Jusuf Nurkić . This move marks a significant roster shift for both franchises and could have ripple effects across their respective rebuilds and rotations.
The Collin Sexton Trade Details
Collin Sexton: What the Hornets Gain
– 26, is a dynamic scoring guard who averaged 18.4 points, 4.2 assists, and 2.7 rebounds over 63 games in the 2024-25 season for Utah.
– Sexton posted career-best shooting numbers last year, including 41% from three-point range and 87% from the free-throw line.
– He has one year and $19 million remaining on his contract before hitting free agency next summer.
– Sexton is expected to fill a critical backcourt role for Charlotte, potentially replacing restricted free agent Tre Mann and adding scoring punch and energy to a young roster.
– The Hornets also receive a 2030 second-round pick, adding future draft flexibility.
Jusuf Nurkić: What the Jazz Gain
– Jusuf Nurkić, 30, is a veteran center who split last season between the and Charlotte Hornets, averaging 8.9 points, 7.8 rebounds, and 2.3 assists over 51 games.
– Nurkić is on an expiring deal worth around $19 million, matching Sexton’s contract length and value.
– He joins a Jazz frontcourt that already includes Walker Kessler and rookie Kyle Filipowski, providing additional size and experience.
– Nurkić was previously acquired by Charlotte at the trade deadline from Phoenix, but played only 25 games for the Suns before the move.
Motivations and Reactions
Utah Jazz
– The Jazz’s decision to move Sexton comes after drafting guards Ace Bailey and Walter Clayton Jr. in the 2025 NBA Draft, signaling a shift toward developing their young backcourt talent.
– The trade has been met with skepticism by analysts and fans, as Utah is sending out the more productive player (Sexton) and a draft pick, while taking on a similar salary in Nurkić.
– Some see this as a possible first step in a larger roster overhaul, while others question the logic given Sexton’s production and contract status.
Charlotte Hornets
– The Hornets are widely viewed as winners in this deal, acquiring a proven scorer and a future pick for a center who did not project as a long-term fit.
– Sexton’s arrival bolsters a young backcourt and gives Charlotte flexibility heading into free agency and the 2025-26 season.
Outlook of the Sexton Trade
– For the Hornets: The addition of Sexton could accelerate their rebuild and provide a much-needed offensive catalyst, especially if he maintains his efficiency and scoring output.
– For the Jazz: The move clears a pathway for their newly drafted guards and adds a veteran presence in the frontcourt, but raises questions about asset management and immediate competitiveness.