Suns Expect Jusuf Nurkic Back for Christmas vs Mavericks

Nurkic is out tonight for personal reasons.

PHOENIX -- The Phoenix Suns will be down their starting center tonight when they battle the Sacramento Kings, as Jusuf Nurkic was listed out on the team's injury report due to personal reasons.

Prior to tonight, Nurkic was one of two players to have played in every game for the Suns. Now, Jordan Goodwin will look to carry that title alone moving forward. 

It's unknown why exactly Nurkic is out, though The Arizona Republic's Duane Rankin is reporting he is expected back for Monday's Christmas Day battle against the Dallas Mavericks. 

Jusuf Nurkic isn't with the team due to personal reasons, but is expected to be back for Monday's Christmas game vs. Dallas. #Suns

— Duane Rankin (@DuaneRankin) December 22, 2023

The Suns acquired Nurkic in a swap with the Portland Trail Blazers that saw Deandre Ayton finally depart Phoenix in late September. The organization cited "fit" as a big reason why they acquired Nurkic, praising his passing abilities and physicality down low. 

In an offense that features Bradley Beal, Kevin Durant and Devin Booker (well, when all are healthy anyways), the Suns ultimately preferred a center who was just fine not touching the ball every possession. 

Thus far, Nurkic has 9.7 shot attempts per night, which ranks fifth on the team. He's averaging a double-double with 12.1 points and 10.3 rebounds per outing  with 3.9 assists, one steal and 1.2 blocks to pair. 

The Suns are 14-13 and have lost their last seven-of-ten heading into Sacramento.