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Former Hornet Cody Martin still sidelined, Suns debut delayed

Martin has yet to make his debut as he recovers from a lingering sports hernia.
Tyler Carmona|
Jan 24, 2025; Charlotte, North Carolina, USA; Charlotte Hornets forward Cody Martin (11) brings the ball up court against the Portland Trail Blazers during the first quarter at Spectrum Center. Mandatory Credit: Scott Kinser-Imagn Images
Jan 24, 2025; Charlotte, North Carolina, USA; Charlotte Hornets forward Cody Martin (11) brings the ball up court against the Portland Trail Blazers during the first quarter at Spectrum Center. Mandatory Credit: Scott Kinser-Imagn Images | Scott Kinser-Imagn Images

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Charlotte Hornets

Cody Martin’s wait to hit the floor in a Phoenix Suns uniform continues. Acquired from the Charlotte Hornets ahead of the Feb. 6 trade deadline, Martin has yet to make his debut as he recovers from a lingering sports hernia—a setback that first emerged in late January.

While the Suns remain optimistic about his eventual return, there’s still no firm timetable. Martin has been limited to light pregame work, and a clearer target date for his debut likely won’t come until he’s able to participate in full-contact practices. As it stands, his absence is expected to stretch into March.

Martin, 28, was the second-longest-tenured Hornet at the time of the trade, trailing only Miles Bridges. The deal sent Martin, Vasilije Micić, and a 2026 second-round pick to Phoenix in exchange for Jusuf Nurkić and a 2026 first-round pick—an aggressive move by Charlotte as they look to reshape their roster.

Before the injury, Martin was in the midst of a strong season, averaging career-highs in points (7.8) and rebounds (4.5). Through five seasons, he’s posted career averages of 6.3 points, 3.7 rebounds, and 2.3 assists while making his mark as a versatile wing defender.

For Phoenix, his return will be key down the stretch, particularly in bolstering their perimeter defense. But for now, Martin remains on the sidelines, with Suns fans still waiting for their first glimpse of the newest addition.

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Tyler Carmona
TYLER CARMONA

Tyler joined the Charlotte Hornets On SI team in December of 2024. He previously worked as a local TV news reporter at WSAV in Savannah, Georgia, and for ESPN Radio. After earning a bachelor's degree from the University of Florida, he attended grad school at Savannah State. Tyler's primary focus in Hornets coverage is centered around the draft and free agency.

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