Nurkic said he and Suns coach Mike Budenholzer didn’t talk for two months. This is consistent with him saying Budenholzer didn’t inform him about a decision not to play him Jan. 9 against Atlanta.

After the recent loss to the Cleveland Cavaliers, Phoenix Suns star Kevin Durant expressed his disappointment with the team's performance.

The Phoenix Suns provided an injury update about their duo ahead of Saturday's matchup with the Washington Wizards.

Phoenix Suns guard Bradley Beal and big Jusuf Nurkic practiced Friday heading into Saturday’s rematch against the Washington Wizards at Footprint Center to begin a three-game homestand. Suns coach Mike Budenholzer is “hopeful” Beal is able to play against his former team after missing Wednesday’s win over Brooklyn with a left ankle sprain to end a five-game road trip.

Practices Friday

Devin Booker scored a game-high 32 points and Kevin Durant registered 24 points in his second game at Brooklyn against his former team to lead Phoenix (22-21) back above .500.

Phoenix Suns center Jusuf Nurkic appeared in and started all but six of the team’s regular season contests during the 2023-24 campaign (plus all four playoff tilts), leading the squad in both games played and started with 76.

Jusuf Nurkić and Mike Budenholzer aren’t in a good place.

Mike Budenholzer on Jusuf Nurkic’s status when ... Suns conclude 5-game trip Wednesday at Brooklyn. #Suns -via Twitter @DuaneRankin / January 20, 2025

Veteran center Jusuf Nurkic was benched earlier this season, and in a perfect world, the Suns would love to use his $18.1 million salary to land a difference-maker. In the meantime, though, he is still a member of the Suns and is working through those difficult circumstances.

Phoenix Suns' starting center Nick Richards had 20 points and a career-high 19 rebounds in their 119-109 win over the Washington Wizards on Saturday.