Phoenix Suns head coach Mike Budenholzer addressed his rotation changes involving Mason Plumlee and rookie Oso Ighodaro taking minutes over Jusuf Nurkic. The decision comes as the Suns experiment with lineups to improve their consistency during a challenging season.

Budenholzer highlighted the importance of performance when explaining his choice. He said, “They’ve been good for us, so we’ll just continue to try and put together our best combinations.” The coach added that Nurkic remains a professional and must be ready when his name is called, noting, “Everybody’s earning their minutes.”

Plumlee has averaged 4 points and 6.4 rebounds in 17.6 minutes per game this season. Ighodaro, a rookie forward, has contributed 3.8 points and 3.8 rebounds in 16.1 minutes per game. Meanwhile, Nurkic’s production stands at 8.6 points and 9.2 rebounds over 23.7 minutes per game.

The Suns have been adjusting their starting lineup, which also saw Bradley Beal transition to a bench role. The team recently earned a 114-106 victory over the Utah Jazz, improving their record to 18-19. Devin Booker led the charge with 34 points, supported by Kevin Durant’s 25 points and Grayson Allen’s 14 off the bench.

Plumlee started his second consecutive game in place of Nurkic, who was serving a suspension. He made an impact with six points, 10 rebounds, and five offensive boards in the win over Utah. Ighodaro, coming off the bench, contributed nine points, two rebounds, and two blocks in 23 minutes.

Budenholzer’s strategy focuses on maximizing team chemistry and addressing defensive gaps. The Suns have struggled with consistency, particularly in defending the paint, where Plumlee’s physicality and Ighodaro’s athleticism have provided a different dynamic.

Phoenix has been experimenting with new rotations in hopes of climbing the Western Conference standings. Currently in 12th place, the Suns are aiming to string together wins as they approach the midpoint of the season. The victory over the Jazz was a step in the right direction, with Booker and Durant continuing to lead the charge.

The Jazz, who dropped to 9-28, were without several key players, including Jordan Clarkson and John Collins. Utah struggled from three-point range, shooting just 21.4%, compared to Phoenix’s 35.1%. Despite strong performances from Lauri Markkanen and Walker Kessler, the Suns capitalized on their deeper rotation and efficient shooting.