PHOENIX — The Phoenix Suns are currently enjoying a successful stretch on the basketball court, while Jusuf Nurkic’s situation appears to be deteriorating.
Nurkic has transitioned from being the starting center to a player largely sitting on the bench in just a month’s time. Coach Mike Budenholzer does not seem inclined to change this dynamic, especially given that the Suns have secured victories in eight of their last eleven matchups and that new acquisition Nick Richards is flourishing.
Recently, Nurkic caused quite a stir by revealing to The Arizona Republic prior to a 119-109 win against the Washington Wizards that he hadn’t had a discussion with Budenholzer for nearly two months, stating that they “don’t have a relationship.”
In response to Nurkic’s remarks, Budenholzer commented, “He hasn’t played. I’m sure he’s frustrated, so I respect that.”
The 30-year-old Nurkic, who has primarily played as a starter for the last ten years, has seen a decline in his performance since joining the Suns ahead of the previous season. Currently, he is averaging only 8.2 points and 9.6 rebounds with a shooting percentage of 45.4% from the floor.
His struggles have been compounded by additional challenges. Nurkic faced a three-game suspension following an altercation involving Dallas players Naji Marshall and P.J. Washington. Furthermore, he missed the last five-game road trip due to a bout of the flu.
Although he was available to play against the Wizards, he remained on the bench.
Nick Richards, brought into the team last month through a deal with Charlotte, has primarily filled the minutes at center during the past four games. Richards has impressed with averages of 13.2 points and 12.2 rebounds, including a standout performance where he scored 20 points and grabbed 19 rebounds against Washington.
“We’ve got three or four guys who play the same position,” Budenholzer stated. “We’re going to go with who we think gives us our best chance. You’ve got to earn your minutes; that’s been communicated.”
Although there is speculation that the Suns might consider trading Nurkic before the upcoming February 6 deadline, the likelihood remains uncertain due to the team’s salary cap limitations alongside Nurkic’s disappointing season. He is currently in the third year of a four-year contract worth $70 million.
With the season beginning with high hopes tied to their star players—Kevin Durant, Devin Booker, and Bradley Beal—the Suns have faced challenges in maintaining a consistent performance. However, their record improved to 23-21 with the recent win over the Wizards.
