The Suns drama between Jusuf Nurkic and Mike Budenholzer had some interesting analysis from DeMarcus Cousins about Nurkic's role.

After missing out on nine-straight games for the Suns, Jusuf Nurkic revealed he has not 'relationship' with his coach Mike Budenholzer.

Phoenix Suns center Jusuf Nurkic, after starting 23 games for the club this season and then being moved to the bench, hasn't played since January 7.

Suns center Jusuf Nurkić said he and head coach Mike Budenholzer "don't have a relationship" in the aftermath of his benching.

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.

Jusuf Nurkic said that he has no relationship with Suns head coach Mike Budenholzer over the past two months, but the coach disagrees.

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.

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.