Head coach Mike Budenholzer of the Phoenix Suns
In a concerning development for the Phoenix Suns, center Jusuf Nurkic will be re-evaluated in a week due to a left middle finger injury, the team announced Saturday. The 7-footer has been ruled out for the Suns’ preseason opener against the Los Angeles Lakers on Sunday at Acrisure Arena in Palm Desert, leaving fans eager for updates on his condition.
Nurkic, who joined the Suns as part of the blockbuster trade that sent Deandre Ayton to the Portland Trail Blazers, is entering his second season with the team. Last season, he proved to be a valuable asset, playing in 76 games and averaging 27.3 minutes per contest. His stats reflect his impact on the court, contributing 10.9 points, 11 rebounds, four assists, and 1.1 blocks per game.
At Suns Media Day, Nurkic expressed excitement about expanding his offensive game, particularly in shooting more three-pointers after averaging just 1.2 attempts per game in the previous season. His ability to stretch the floor could be crucial for the Suns, especially as they look to maximize the talents of their star-studded lineup.
New head coach Mike Budenholzer has already laid out his starting five, featuring Nurkic at center alongside perennial All-Stars Kevin Durant, Devin Booker, and Bradley Beal, along with newcomer Tyus Jones. With such an impressive roster, the Suns are looking to build off last season’s efforts and make a deep playoff run. However, Nurkic’s injury comes at an unfortunate time, particularly with the preseason games on the horizon.
Budenholzer revealed that Nurkic suffered the injury during a scrimmage, a common occurrence in the lead-up to the season. To mitigate the impact of Nurkic’s absence, the Suns signed veteran center Mason Plumlee during the offseason to provide depth. They also drafted Marquette’s Oso Ighodaro and re-signed Bol Bol, bolstering their frontcourt options.
As the Suns gear up for a busy preseason slate with five games before the regular season opener on October 23 against the Los Angeles Clippers, the team will be watching Nurkic’s recovery closely. His presence in the lineup will be critical to the Suns’ success, especially as they aim to integrate their new pieces and solidify their chemistry ahead of the season. Fans will be eagerly anticipating the next update on Nurkic’s condition, hoping for a quick return to action for their center.
