Jusuf Nurkic must be regretting his altercation with Mavericks’ Naji Marshall. After all, that’s the root of all his troubles right now. Not only was he ejected from the game, but he also missed the next three games due to suspension. However, things didn’t return to normal after that. In fact, something happened to him that hadn’t occurred in nearly seven years.

Nurkic was eager to get back on the floor and resume his responsibilities with the Suns. Head coach Mike Budenholzer did allow him to play against the Sixers, but not as a starter. The Bosnian center hadn’t come off the bench and played in the reserve role since the 2016-2017 season. Nevertheless, at least he was given some playing time, but the situation has been different in the last two games. Despite being healthy, Nurkic was not added to the roster. Instead, their new acquisition, Mason Plumlee, is the one getting more minutes on the hardwood. And Budenholzer had a solid justification for this decision.

During the post-game press conference after their 114-106 win against the Jazz, Budenholzer explained, “We went with Mason… they’ve been good for us. So, you know, we’ll just continue to try and put together our best combinations, you know, to figure out how to get through a game.” So the HC is experimenting with the available options on the squad, and Plumlee seems to be working within the game plan. But that doesn’t mean the doors are closed for Nurkic.

Calling Nurkic “a pro” Budenholzer gave him hope, saying, “He’s got to be ready. Everybody’s earning their minutes. Everybody’s earning their opportunities. So, you know, we’re gonna need everybody as we go through the season.” That definitely seems fair, so the 7-footer can be sure that his turn will come. But what if it doesn’t with the Suns? Rumors are swirling that Phoenix might be planning a potential move.

Suns potentially eyeing replacement for Jusuf Nurkic

The Suns are serious about winning the title, but with their current roster, that doesn’t seem likely anytime soon. So, they’re considering a trade. With Jimmy Butler’s move looking a bit too complicated, they’re turning their attention to a 27-year-old Charlotte Hornets center. Clearly, they wouldn’t keep so many centers on the team just to bench them, so a sacrifice has to be made. That sacrifice, reportedly, would be Jusuf Nurkic.

According NBA insider Evan Sidery, “The Suns and Hornets have held preliminary trade discussions that would send Jusuf Nurkic and second-round picks for Nick Richards.” The Forbes reporter further added, “Phoenix has removed Nurkic from the rotation as they seek a trade.” That clearly explains why he is being sidelined. The Suns would get another asset from the Hornets in the potential deal.

If the deal goes through, it would mark the end of Nurkic’s chapter in Phoenix, and his hopes with the team would be crushed. What happens next will only be revealed once more updates come through on the ongoing discussions.