There seems to be tension between Jusuf Nurkić and Mike Budenholzer. The Phoenix Suns center recently disclosed that he went two months without communicating with his head coach, which is concerning given the importance of regular communication during the season.
When Nurkić was unexpectedly benched for a game against the Atlanta Hawks on Jan. 9, he did not receive any explanation from Budenholzer about the decision.
“We don’t have a relationship,” Nurkić stated, via the Arizona Republic. “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.”
Nurkić has been out of play for the Suns since Jan. 7 and was replaced in the starting lineup by Mason Plumlee and Nick Richards. Despite missing some time due to illness, he is now available to return to the court.
“It’s never easy in this league,” Budenholzer acknowledged. “He hasn’t played, I’m sure he’s frustrated. I respect that.”
“There’s been conversations that have been had. There’s been communication, but we’ve got three or four guys that play the same position. We’re going to go with who we think gives us our best chance. You’ve got to earn your minutes. And that’s been communicated.”
This season, Nurkić has averaged 8.6 points and 9.2 rebounds, his second year with the Suns. The 30-year-old is currently in the third year of a four-year, $70 million contract he signed with the Portland Trail Blazers. Notably, he has been a starter for most of his career and has not come off the bench since his early days backing up Nikola Jokić in Denver.
The Suns, with a 23-21 record, recently secured a 119-109 victory over the Washington Wizards, marking their seventh win in their last nine games. Their next game will be against the Clippers on Monday.
Rumors of potential trades, including talks involving Jimmy Butler of the Miami Heat, have surrounded the Suns in recent weeks. Additionally, the team has acquired several draft picks. While Nurkić has been involved in trade discussions, it remains uncertain if the Suns will make any moves before the Feb. 6 deadline.
“It’s hard to understand why I’m not starting anymore,” Nurkić expressed. “I try to fulfill my role, but at the end of the day, it’s the NBA. That’s why young players like [Suns rookie Oso Ighodaro] get opportunities. It’s always ‘next man up,’ but I’m grateful for the chance to contribute.”
“I know my worth as a person and a player. One door closes, another will eventually open. That’s what I’m striving towards and hoping for.”