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.

Suns coach Mike Budenholzer provides updates on Bradley Beal, Jusuf Nurkic and what he wants to see improved in the second half.

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

Practices Friday

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

The main issue that Phoenix Suns head coach Mike Budenholzer and the rest of the team have echoed. However, when the Suns swapped Josh Okogie for Nick Richards , some of those problems might go away.

Even with Nurkić out, head coach Mike Budenholzer played just one center in the game, Mason Plumlee, who ended with just five rebounds. Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports After the game ...

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.

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.