Jusuf Nurkic was a starting NBA center for nine seasons and in a matter of weeks, his world has been tipped upside down.
Suns coach Mike Budenholzer moved Nurkic to the bench and now he hasn’t played since January 7.
“It’s hard to understand why,” Nurkic said. “As you know, I try to do whatever they want from me. I play my role or whatever, but at the end of the day, it’s the NBA.”
The big man says the pair haven’t spoken in two months and their relationship is non-existent.
“We don’t have a relationship,” Nurkic said via AZ Central. “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.”
Budenholzer addressed Nurkic’s ‘relationship’ comments after the game.
“It’s never easy in this league,” Budenholzer said. “He hasn’t played. I’m sure he’s frustrated, so I respect that.”
He added, when pressed by reporters: “There’s been conversations that have been had. There’s been communication, but you know, we got three or four guys who play the same position. We’re gonna go with who gives us our best chance. You’ve gotta earn your minutes, and that’s been communicated.”
Nurkic said he doesn’t hold anything against the other Suns’ big men despite his situation.
“I’m glad Bud find somebody who he like he can play,” Nurkic said, referring to new recruit Nick Richards. “I think that’s refreshing for him to rotate four centers. I think that’s something that’s sustainable, and that’s the NBA. I have nothing against Nick. Any way I can help, but I’m glad they found someone who they want to play.”
The trade rumors of Nurkic being moved ahead of the trade deadline have been non-stop, but he says he’s prepared either way.
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