FILE – Utah Jazz guard Collin Sexton (2) in the first half of an NBA basketball game Friday, March 28, 2025, in Denver. (AP Photo/David Zalubowski, File) The NBA offseason has produced a notable trade, as the Utah Jazz 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
TeamReceivesTrades Away Hornets Collin Sexton (G), 2030 2nd-round pick Jusuf Nurkić (C) Jazz Jusuf Nurkić (C) Collin Sexton (G), 2030 2nd-round pick
Collin Sexton: What the Hornets Gain
– Collin Sexton, 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
Walker Kessler and Collin Sexton (Image via Getty)
– Jusuf Nurkić, 30, is a veteran center who split last season between the Phoenix Suns 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.Also read: Julius Randle’s $100 Million Deal with the Minnesota Timberwolves: Full BreakdownThis trade is likely to be scrutinized as the offseason unfolds, especially if either team makes additional moves or if Sexton flourishes in Charlotte. For now, the Hornets appear to have secured a valuable asset at a minimal cost, while the Jazz pivot toward youth and roster flexibility.