The Phoenix Suns are expected to be highly active as the 2025 NBA trade deadline approaches. While they are engaged in negotiations to acquire Miami Heat star Jimmy Butler, they have also been looking for trade options for center Jusuf Nurkic for several weeks.
With the deadline just a week away, Phoenix is making progress in securing a trade partner for Nurkic. A source with knowledge of the situation recently revealed that the Suns have been in discussions with the Chicago Bulls, Atlanta Hawks, Toronto Raptors, and Washington Wizards regarding a potential deal. These teams are willing to absorb Nurkicโs contract in exchange for a future first-round pick.
The Suns recently acquired three first-round picks with less favorable conditions from the Utah Jazz in exchange for their unprotected 2031 first-round pick. This trade tripled the number of draft assets available to Phoenix, and one of these picks is expected to facilitate a Nurkic trade.
Nurkicโs performance this season has been underwhelming. He is averaging 8.6 points, 9.2 rebounds, and 1.9 assists per game with a true shooting percentage of just 55.6%. As a result, he has been removed from Phoenixโs rotation entirely. Currently, he is the teamโs fourth-string center behind newcomers Nick Richards, Mason Plumlee, and rookie Oso Ighodaro. While Nurkic did not accompany the Suns on their extended road trip due to an โillness,โ the reality is that the team is determined to move him before the February 6 deadline.
Discussing potential trade scenarios, Phoenix has options with multiple teams:
Chicago Bulls
One possibility is swapping Nurkic for Patrick Williams, a former No. 4 overall pick who recently signed a five-year extension. While Williams could benefit from a fresh start in Phoenix, his contract runs through 2028-29, making it a risk if he fails to perform. Phoenix is unlikely to give up a first-round pick in exchange for Williams but could instead look at a reunion with two former Suns:
Suns receive: Jalen Smith, Torrey Craig, 2028 second-round pick (via Sacramento Kings)
Bulls receive: Jusuf Nurkic, 2025 first-round pick (likely Clevelandโs pick)
Jalen Smith, a former top-10 pick, originally struggled in Phoenix but found success with the Indiana Pacers before signing with Chicago. Meanwhile, Craig, who has already had two stints with the Suns, could return for a third.
Atlanta Hawks
Following a season-ending injury to Jalen Johnson, the Hawks may prioritize acquiring draft picks. In this scenario, Phoenix could receive a valuable veteran with an expiring contract:
Suns receive: Larry Nance Jr., Garrison Matthews, 2025 second-round pick (via Minnesota Timberwolves)
Hawks receive: Jusuf Nurkic, 2025 first-round pick
Nance is having a strong season in a reserve role, averaging 9.0 points, 4.1 rebounds, and 1.1 steals while shooting a career-high 46.6% from three. His $11 million expiring contract would also allow Phoenix to clear salary for the 2025-26 season.
Toronto Raptors
Toronto is actively shopping veteran players, making them another potential trade partner for Nurkic.
Suns receive: Chris Boucher or Kelly Olynyk, Ochai Agbaji
Raptors receive: Jusuf Nurkic, 2025 first-round pick, 2025 second-round pick (via Denver Nuggets or Philadelphia 76ers)
Although Phoenix would lose both of its picks in the upcoming draft, acquiring Agbajiโan athletic wing enjoying a career-best seasonโcould be a worthwhile gamble.
Washington Wizards
Washington is open to trading any veteran players and previously explored a Nurkic-for-Jonas Valanฤiลซnas swap. If that deal isnโt revisited, the Suns could still work out another trade:
Suns receive: Saddiq Bey, Marvin Bagley III, 2025 second-round pick (via Suns)
Wizards receive: Jusuf Nurkic, 2025 first-round pick
This move would primarily serve as a salary dump for Phoenix, but they would gain an extra second-round pick. Bey, sidelined all season due to an ACL injury, was highly regarded by Phoenixโs front office before the draft. If healthy, he could contribute as a versatile wing who can shoot and defend.
A resolution to Nurkicโs situation is expected soon as the Suns evaluate their trade options.
