According to Gerald Bourguet of PHNX Sports, Jusuf Nurkic could be a crucial factor for the Suns this season. With many reliable players already in place, the veteran center’s performance on a game-by-game basis may significantly impact Phoenix’s overall success.
Bourguet observed that Nurkic struggled to stay on the court during the first two games, accumulating a total of just 15 points, six assists, and a concerning eight turnovers.
However, he rebounded impressively in Saturday’s game against Dallas, contributing 18 points and 14 rebounds while shooting an efficient 7-of-12 from the field.
“He was great,” said head coach Mike Budenholzer. “His physicality in the paint, his rebounding, defense, everything. So it was good, I think. He’s a great teammate, he’s a competitor. I think he wanted to come back tonight and have that kind of positive impact for us, and he did it in a big way.”
During the game on Saturday, Nurkic had an impressive stretch where he scored 12 consecutive points in the second quarter. He displayed a renewed determination to create space for post-up opportunities and effectively capitalized on chances around the basket.
“I felt like they was disrespecting me in a way because I was last game just not as aggressive,” Nurkic expressed. “I know I can score the ball, especially in the post, and they wanna just let me play. I think that [Devin Booker] and Tyus [Jones] and coach just let me play, so I was taking advantage of my size and try to be just aggressive as I could.”
Nurkic’s remarks indicate his awareness of the need to assert himself more and leverage his size and skills effectively. His ability to adapt and elevate his game will be critical as the Suns aim to maximize their potential this season.
Suns Notes: Nurkic, Durant, Dunn, Allen https://t.co/DVFp6FoyL5 pic.twitter.com/23AR1ucPVY
— Hoops Rumors (@HoopsRumors) October 28, 2024
