Suns’ Jusuf Nurkic reveals he has ‘no relationship with HC Mike Budenholzer’
While the Phoenix Suns may seem focused on Bradley Beal’s situation, there’s another issue brewing. Recently, center Jusuf Nurkic and head coach Mike Budenholzer have had differing views about their relationship.
AZCentral’s Duane Rankin first reported Nurkic’s comments ahead of Saturday’s 119-109 win against the Washington Wizards, in which Nurkic again didn’t play. His lack of playing time has been influenced by several factors, such as the Suns’ decision to trade Josh Okogie for Nick Richards, who has made an immediate impact.
Richards contributed 20 points and 19 rebounds in the win, providing the physicality and toughness that the Suns were lacking from Nurkic this season. As Nurkic’s role diminishes, he openly discussed his relationship with Budenholzer.
“We don’t have a relationship,” Nurkic stated. “So, it’s fine. For me, just be a pro and do the best I can. Work and stay ready for whatever might be, but there is no chaos or bringing that to this team. They already have plenty of it. Trying to be as professional as I can and work my ass off for something else.”
Despite Nurkic’s absence, the Suns have shown consistency, going 8-3 since benching both him and Beal at the start of January. Acquiring players like Richards, along with strong performances from Kevin Durant and Devin Booker, has only strengthened their position.
Mike Budenholzer disagrees with Nurkic’s comments
However, the first-year head coach didn’t take too kindly to Nurkic’s remarks. The Bosnian center is struggling with career-low shooting percentages and a high number of turnovers, many due to avoidable mistakes.
Budenholzer’s decision to bench Nurkic surprised many, but with the Suns struggling, the move seemed necessary. After Saturday’s win, Budenholzer addressed Nurkic’s comments, offering some context to the situation.
“It’s never easy in this league,” Budenholzer said, according to Gerald Bourguet of PHNX Suns. “He hasn’t played. I’m sure he’s frustrated, so I respect that.”
When asked if he and Nurkic had spoken, Budenholzer responded, “There’s been conversations that have been had. There’s been communication, but we have 3 or 4 guys that play the same position. We’re going to go with who we think gives us our best chance. You have to earn your minutes, and that’s been communicated.”
With the Suns’ center rotation now relying on Mason Plumlee and rookie Oso Ighodaro, Richards was acquired to fill the need for a true big man who can contribute to the team’s success. As a result, Nurkic has faced multiple DNPs since Richards joined the team.
The Suns face a decision on Jusuf Nurkic
The NBA trade deadline is fast approaching on February 6, and the Suns may look to make a move. While there have been rumors of Beal being involved in a trade scenario with Jimmy Butler, moving Nurkic could be their primary goal. With two years and nearly $40 million remaining on his contract, trading him won’t be easy.
Given his lack of impact this season, teams may be hesitant to take on his contract. Nurkic isn’t on a one-year deal, which means he’s unlikely to be bought out by a tanking team. This leaves him in a tough spot, with Phoenix possibly needing to make a decision soon.
Nurkic is still a capable center who could make a positive impact on another NBA roster, even though he hasn’t been able to do so with Phoenix this season. With the crowded center position and the tension between him and Budenholzer, it seems likely that a trade or move will happen soon.
With the trade deadline looming, the Suns may need to either accept Nurkic’s salary or find a trade partner. Given the coach-player tension and his current performance, a change of scenery might be the best option for Nurkic at this point.
