Jusuf Nurkic has returned to the Phoenix Suns after a case of the flu. Nurkic addressed that and more in a sit-down with the Arizona Republic.
“I feel good, I feel better now,” Nurkic said on why he was out for several games. “It was just a bad flu.”
The veteran center said that despite being out the lineup, he doesn’t expect to be traded by the Suns. Nurkic said the logistics of Phoenix being over the second apron might prevent him from being traded.
“Yeah, for sure,” Nurkic said when asked if he believes he’ll be with the Suns after the trade deadline. “Because we are the Phoenix Suns and new (collective bargaining agreement) and all the rules, it’s not easy to get traded when you’re over the second tax apron. Even that, I can’t control.
“It was what it is. Life is not fair.”
Despite that, and a lack of a relationship with Suns head coach Mike Budenholzer, Nurkic said he won’t cause any issues for the team.
“We don’t have a relationship,” Nurkic said of his situation with Budenholzer. “So, it’s fine. For me, just be a pro and do the best I can. Work and stay ready for whatever might be, but there is no chaos or bringing that to this team. They already have plenty of it. Trying to be as professional as I can and work my ass off for something else.”