Following a 121-113 loss to the Minnesota Timberwolves where the Phoenix Suns collapsed in the second half, Suns coach Mike Budenholzer reacted to the result.

Jusuf Nurkic said that he has no relationship with Suns head coach Mike Budenholzer over the past two months, but the coach disagrees.

Jusuf Nurkić and Mike Budenholzer aren’t in a good place.

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 center Jusuf Nurkic appeared in and started all but six of the team’s regular season contests during the 2023-24 campaign (plus all four playoff tilts), leading the squad in both games played and started with 76.

Suns center Jusuf Nurkić said he and head coach Mike Budenholzer "don't have a relationship" in the aftermath of his benching.

Suns center Jusuf Nurkic was unceremoniously benched.

Phoenix Suns center Jusuf Nurkic hasn't played since Jan. 7 at Charlotte but was available for Saurday's game.

The Phoenix Suns have four bigs on the roster, including newly acquired 7-footer Nick Richards. Nurkic was moved to the bench earlier this month.

"Obviously I’m a player so I’m trying to play but it’s not up to me,” Dunn said.

Anthony Edwards scored 33 points, Julius Randle added 28 and the Minnesota Timberwolves won their fourth straight game by beating the Phoenix Suns 121-113 on Wednesday night.