Jusuf Nurkić of the Phoenix Suns has expressed his frustration with head coach Mike Budenholzer, revealing a lack of communication between them, especially after losing his starting position. The center acknowledged that he had gone two months without speaking directly to Budenholzer, which he finds concerning during the season. He was benched on January 9 against the Atlanta Hawks, and Budenholzer later stated that Nurkić needs to earn his minutes on the court.

Despite averaging 8.6 points and 9.2 rebounds this season, Nurkić has not played since January 7 and has been replaced in the starting lineup by Mason Plumlee and Nick Richards. The Suns currently hold a 23-21 record, winning seven of their last nine games. As trade rumors swirl around the team, including potential moves involving Nurkić, the player remains hopeful for a second chance in the lineup.