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

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

Suns center Jusuf Nurkic, who hasn't played since Jan. 7, says he hasn't spoken to coach Mike Budenholzer in two months.

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.

Suns center Jusuf Nurkic was unceremoniously benched.

Jusuf Nurkic's unexpected benching by Coach Mike Budenholzer has led to trade rumors and public discord within the Phoenix Suns. Nurkic stresses profe

Ryan Dunn was ruled out prior to tip-off due to an ankle sprain suffered early in Phoenix's victory over the Washington Wizards, so the Suns had to adapt once again. Head coach Mike Budenholzer opted to keep the same starting lineup intact that contributed to the victory over the Los Angeles Clippers on Monday.

"Obviously I’m a player so I’m trying to play but it’s not up to me,” Dunn said.

Anthony Edwards scored 33 points, Julius Randle added 28 and the Minnesota Timberwolves won their fourth straight game by beating the Phoenix Suns 121-113 on Wednesday night.