Suns’ Jusuf Nurkic Talks Trade Possibilities, Says He Has No Relationship With Coach

Suns center Jusuf Nurkic went from quality starter to benchwarmer and seems to have a pretty good idea that the team is looking to trade him, according to Duane Rankin of the Arizona Republic.Jusuf Nurkic, Suns, NBA

Nurkic also said he hadn’t spoken to coach Mike Budenholzer for two months. So, yeah, this is a less-than-ideal situation with the Feb. 6 trade deadline right around the bend.

But Jurkic wondered if Phoenix could even trade him — given the new labor rules.

“Yeah, for sure,” he said when asked if he thinks he’ll be with the team after the trade deadline, via Rankin. “Because we are the Phoenix Suns and new (collective bargaining agreement) and all the rules, it’s not easy to get traded when you’re over the second tax apron. Even that, I can’t control.”

As for falling out of the rotation, he stated simply: “It was what it is. Life is not fair.”

Meanwhile, Nurkic’s relationship with Budenholzer appears icy at best. 

“We don’t have a relationship,” Nurkic said, via Rankin. “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 responded to those comments by telling reporters the NBA is never easy. 

“He hasn’t played. I’m sure he’s frustrated,” Budenholzer said. “I respect that.”

Rankin reported that Budenholzer was then pressed more about Nurkic’s playing time and their relationship.

“There’s been conversations that have been had,” Budenholzer added. “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.”

Nurkic, 30, is averaging 8.6 points and 9.2 rebounds in 25 appearances this season. He carries career averages of 12.0 points and 9.0 boards, shooting 51 percent from the field.

Nurkic is in the third year of a four-year, $70-million deal he signed while still with the Portland Trail Blazers.

The Suns (23-21) have played better lately, having won two straight and seven of 10. They reportedly have been targeting available Heat star Jimmy Butler ahead of the deadline.

Nurkic lost his starting role to Nick Richards, acquired in a trade with the Hornets a few weeks back.

“I’m glad Bud find somebody who he like he can play,” Nurkic said. “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.”  

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