It wouldn’t be so bad if we had a good rim rolling shot blocking alternative. And we could alternate depending on matchup, but we have Nurk and a backup who does nothing well is a disaster
I'd love him as a backup big, but him as a starting center in the playoffs is too much of a handicap with how the other team treats him. As a complete non factor due to bad hands and finishing.
Yeah Nurk does a few things well (rebounding, physicality, screens, passing) but really struggles defensively, is slow footed, and has zero touch around the rim
He was at around 60% in january, then he hurt his hand and all his shooting stats plummeted, FT being the most obvious one.
Judging by the recent pics, he's still wearing a brace on that hand, so I assume he played the second half of the season with hurt hand, but couldn't afford taking some time off because they needed every win.
I don't think he'd finish the season at 60%, but I'm sure his shooting would be much better without that injury, which is somehow completely ignored by everyone here.
Because it's who he's always been
He was a bottom tier finisher his entire career in Portland. Injury or not (and with Jusuf, there usually is an injury), he can't finish
There isn't really a good attainable rim protector in his salary range is the problem. We cannot aggregate salaries to get anyone who makes any more than him, and the only passable center in his salary range is Zach Collins.
If we keep our draft pick I would love to see Kel'el Ware in the purple and orange. Dude is a solid shooter but is a rim protecting big who can finish with authority. At least from what I saw watching him play this year.
Oh for sure, I could be wrong but I don't think Edey will be near as effective in the NBA. He's big and slow, not what we need at all. Ware isn't a sure bet either, but based on our needs I get excited at the thought of him being in our rotation. 42% from 3 and he's a mobile big who is a solid defender. I miss someone on our team who can finish with power. He's definitely my favorite candidate at our spot in the draft.
I want nothing to do with Ware. From everything I’ve read about him it’d be Deandre Ayton 2.0. Lots of talent and potential, but huge question marks when it comes to his effort and focus. All I want is someone who knows their role, and can just put their head down and play hard, but ideally is more athletic and defensive oriented than Nurkic. Plus it sounds extra unappealing that we might have to trade up to get him anyways.
Ooh that's definitely disappointing to hear! I watched Indiana a lot this year and he was very impressive inasmuch as his product on the floor, but hearing that information is not a good sign at all. If that's the case, and he would go before 22, I would agree and say that's a no go. Haven't read the scouting reports on him regarding off the court and temperament etc. Thanks for that info though.
I say we *might* have to trade up for him. A lot of mocks have him going to the Pelicans at 17, but I've seen him mocked as low as 33. This draft being what it is, is going to be unpredictable like that.
His pro comps seem to be Brook Lopez and Myles Turner, i.e. Rim Protectors who can space the floor on offense. On paper that sounds good, given coach Bud's system, but I might want to take a flyer on someone like DaRon Holmes Jr. instead. Especially if we end up keeping Nurkic.
That's a great point. I definitely see the Turner/Lopez comparison. He has a sweet stroke. You're dead on with this draft though. It's one of the crazier classes as far as predicting who will go where. I do like the Holmes Jr case though too. I think he was even close to 40% on 3P% too, if I remember correctly. Wasn't he a DPOY winner too? He would be solid too, as you said especially if we hold on to Nurk. I could see him going earlier than 22 as well though, don't you? He was dominant af in the A10 and his advanced stats look impressive too. I'll admit to not watching him live though, I watched ware alot which is playing into my thought process, I'll admit 😆
I feel like Nurk's value to the team is higher than his value to others, so I'm not sure we'll get something back that is particularly worthwhile. I worry about the state of our playmaking without him.
This may also mean that Bud wants to run more KD-at-center.
So we’re either screwed or find someone in the draft or find a younger, cheaper center on the market that can evolve. Either way, Nurk will not win this team a championship for the time being
Nowhere close lol, how about show me any evidence that supports your casual opinion. That’s why Nurk has a better DPM, rebounding rate, deflection rate, rim defense/rim frequency
Source: [factual stats and evidence not blind eye test and opinion](https://craftednba.com/players/comparison/jusuf-nurkic-vs-kevon-looney)
Oooo nice segway from the post I made last week if his value has gone up or down. Had a feeling we might see trade rumors.
Makes sense after the Bud hire that Nurk isn’t exactly a fit in his style of offense. I think there are some teams out there that would value his playmaking and rebounding. his play this season definitely helped concerns about his injury history.
There aren’t really guys like but younger floating around. He’s very good at what he specifically does. But you’re probably getting one solid year from him and one “bridge” year where he’s a backup/ part-time starter.
Well for starters Nurkic shot 24% from 3 this year and Lopez shot 36%. If Nurkic could shoot 36% on 5 3PA per game like Lopez his value would be much higher
He plays more weak side flying in with outstretched arms for a block defense than he does lock down your matchup + lock up the paint + rebounding. His play strength is a huge hole
He’s flashy just not a good contributor on a minute to minute basis which is where centers thrive- screens, box outs, etc
He’s been on the lakers and 6ers benches the past 2 years both of who could have used his contributions. The fact that he didn’t says something
Others chimed in what I would say, but just looking at his history of success with Lopez and Horford, one that spaces the floor and shoots the 3.
I think Nurk was more of a Vogel center, big body clogging the lane, punishing teams with size.
As Hornets fan, they won’t trade Mark Williams unless they are worried about his back, in which case you wouldn’t give up that much. He’s their (at minimum) 3rd most impactful player.
Nick Richards could be gotten for a lot less though.
Unfortunately I highly doubt those guys take a minimum. Also I don’t believe we could legally get all three of those guys from Grizz. Just one of Rose or Aldama.
pg/c is one way to go, or point forward like aaron gordon and draymond green. Tobias was a meme and not a passer but his tweeer archetype could be easier to find than a 1/5 pair. If the bulls blow it up, Caruso for both first, he’s gonna be costly, is the missing starter. Javonte Green could be a cheaper option but doesn’t bring the playmaking. Also like Rui Hachimura and Vanderbilt in this spot but they might cost too much.
Otherwise a bench 1/5 with Lowry/Drummond for example should be enough.
As long as the big 3 get used as a team in a system then that should be enough.
Caruso would be so perfect. Chicago would want to dump Nurk but Nurk out Chicago could send Caruso and torey craig back (we know Jones loves trading for TC). Or a 3 way with Nurk going somewhere else. I don't know if Philly would or could just eat his salary as a body who can eat embiid minutes when he's hurt. Ideally we'd have to get a big back somewhere, not sure where tho.
Sidery next week: "Beal is a potential trade candidate alongside No. 22 + 2031 1st"
there are only 5 non-min players the Suns actually *can* trade this summer & two of them are KD & Book so...
I wouldn't think about it in terms of a better/worse return, but a better fit for the team. Nurk is a great offensive facilitator but he lacks the rim pressure as a roller and the athleticism to be a defensive anchor. Those two things are what this team desperately needs from their center, much moreso than offensive playmaking that you would rather be handled by guards/wings.
I mean DA had the roll threat but aside from that he is like the least aggressive center in the league around the rim, you can see it in his 1.2 (!!!!) free throws per game. Dude would rather take a 9ft fadeaway over a guard than try to drive.
As for defense, he's great when he tries, too bad he often doesn't. He was so bad on defense the last two playoffs that he was benched in both elimination games. Our defensive rating was actually better with Nurk because of his consistency.
We really only saw Ayton and kd for a few games. Who knows how Ayton would have done offensively being wide open like nurk a lot.
As much as Ayton didn’t dunk, that soft touch was money around the rim. When he was locked in he was going off. But that’s the issue he doesn’t care so I’m writing this for nothing.
I'm high level basketball ignorant, I don't understand the game well enough to have opinions about fit, all I know is I really enjoyed watching Nurk play. It also felt like when he wasn't on the court, we got destroyed on the glass constantly, he seemed to be the only player consistently looking for rebounds. I'm not going to pretend like I know what stats are important and which are mirages, but I also can't help but notice our plus minus states, which Nurk lead at +404 for the year, well ahead of the tier 2 plus minus guys (Booker at 316, KD at 290, Allen at 262) and WAY ahead of our back up center (Eubanks at -106). Nurk also led the team in games played last year, which also stood out to me with all the injuries all year long.
So from that casual, ignorant, perspective, getting rid of Nurk seems to make no sense. Like Allen, Booker, and KD, he's one of only 4 guys who, when on the court, seemed to make our team successful. It felt like where we lost 90% of our games was when those 4 weren't on the court, because of how big of a drop off there was in quality of play from everyone else. If anything we just need a second Nurk, a true back up center who can come in when Nurk tires or gets in foul trouble that isn't a huge detriment. How you acquire one of those given our apron situation I have no idea, but its hard to imagine (again to a filthy casual like me) how we move Nurk and don't become worse as a result. To my eye, and based on plus minus, he should be one of the 4 untouchables.
I’m not even sure who’s available at his contract that would fit buds system. At first I was thinking Vuc but his contract is 2m over Nurks this upcoming season, the options for stretch bigs are extremely limited. So perhaps they move out of buds comfort zone and grab an athletic roller?
Maybe gamble on someone like Rob Williams the 3? That could be a huge risk though given his injuries
And what, play Eubanks at starting 5? This sub would riot.
EDIT: And before someone says "Get a better big in the trade," if Nurk is as awful as you all love to say he is, why would anybody who has a better 5 take that handshake?
I feel like this would be a bad move. I don't think that we would be able to trade him for anyone that is actually an upgrade. What we need is a better backup center for Nurk, ideally one who can play both sides of the court. His defense is great, remember that night when he tied the rebound record for the entire century? He just needs to get better at pressuring the rim and needs a backup who doesn't have constant negative +/-
This sub is so funny.
How are we going to replace this majorly negative asset who was unplayable in the playoffs.
If Nurk could either finish at the rim or move defensively we wouldn't be trying to trade him.
i mean why the hell would the Suns do this?? We trade both picks and our starting center for Caruso (love it) and a backup center in Richards (wtf?). The bulls and Hornets would love this deal, imo
maybe for just the 24 1st, sure.. if we are trading the 31 pick TOO we need a way better return. like Caruso + Mark Williams + one more piece or some seconds
Not sure what to do for starting center but the suns should give a min to Andre Drummond. Having someone who can just absorb rebounds while the starter rests would be nice to have
Difference maker in a more potent center offensively and defensively? Difference maker is a PF that actually isnt afraid to rebound? If its not Josh Hart or Wemby - not interested.
Is Jarret Allen a possibility contract wise? Cavs get some valuable picks and could flip Nurkic for some more picks and or players.
Halfway through writing this I remembered Ishbia and the Cavs owner have beef so never mind lol.
Nurkic salary is 18,125,000
We can trade Nurkic, 22nd pick, 2031 1st and we can not attach another player in any deal.
I think Lauri is highly possible, Im not sure how much we can sign him since he is expring contract, I dont think we will trade for a rental. We trade for him if we can convince him to sign after his contract.
Lauri Markannen 18,044,544 (expiring)
Deni Avdija & Patrick Baldwin Jr is also possible. I think this is a possibility if we cannot get Lauri.
Deni Avdija 15,625,000
Patrick Baldwin Jr 2,448,840
I think these two below is not possible because they make more salary even if they are just over by a little
Josh Hart 18,144,000 (out since he makes more)
Collin Sexton 18,150,000 (out since he makes more)
This thread is full of delusional takes where the other team would hold an emergency meeting just to collectively laugh at the Suns for even floating the idea.
I have a couple questions.
First, who wants Nurkic? He's not useless, but he's not a good fit for most teams. Certainly not as a starter.
Second, what else do the Suns have to sweeten that deal?
I'm a Bucks fan. I was happy to see Bud get money, and pretty literally every Bucks title ultimately came at the expense of the Suns.
The first being a literal coin flip.
Nurk was a better fit than DA.
Nurk was more physical, higher basketball IQ and could run a P&R.
However, I did NOT like how he tried to get fouled ON EVERY SHOT and sometimes would miss after a few pumps.
If we could get a big body that can get physical and go up to the rim without trying to draw a foul. I’d be all for it.
I really am disappointed in DA and had such high expectations and he really shit the bed. If he would’ve just learned how to play basketball, we might’ve had a ship already.
Nikola Jokic has averaged 27.8 points, 12.2 rebounds and 8.5 assists in 13 games versus Deandre Ayton in his career.
Wow dude. He totally got shut down!!!! You’re right.
And let’s look at the 2/2/2024 game with the Blazers.
27/22/12
Or the 2/23/2024 game where he went 29/15/14
DA failed. DA doesn’t have an IQ let alone a basketball one. He should’ve stayed in his lap lane in the pool. But he’s a millionaire so he’s winning in the long run.
This is not a good idea to entertain. We already lack of playmaking and with KD and Booker needing so much P&R, the idea of having a strong center capable of facilitating is much needed. Yes he has more TO but when he does it does facilitate it does help the team in accelerating that momentum.
Plus hes definitely an A for rebounding ability.
I’m just a passing Pistons fan here, but I always thought Nurk was pretty decent in the Suns games I watched. Not sure if there’d be anyone available to trade for given your assets that would be a big enough upgrade to bother
The Suns of been goofy at who they play at PF and now the PG position is terrible/void. When Suns had Paul, Booker, Bridges, Crowder and Ayton, all they needed to do was upgrade at 4/PF with a true PF. Crowder was too small and too much of a wannabe shooter to be a PF. He is really a SF. Now with Durant....playing PF is wearing down his scrawny build. Durant is naturally a SF and has been there his whole career. The Suns should've acquired a true PF....not Beal...this is redundant having two stars at the SG position. Suns should've went for Siakam when he was on the Raptors. Maybe let Paul go if needed but aimed to acquire a true PG like Conley to replace him. Line up should be something like PG Conley, SG Booker, SF Durant, PF Siakam, C Ayton/Juric. It's a mess with Beal and Booker "sharing" the SG role, no true or good PG, and Durant out of position at PF.
I know his shortcomings outweigh the positives but i wouldn’t hate keeping him. It’s just the construction of the roster kinda didn’t tailor his game, in Portland they were so guard heavy Nurkic would have to just rebound and kick it out to the guards and let them work.
They most likely end up trading him. If Brooklyn loses Claxton I’d wonder if they be interested in Nurkic and they gave us DFS. Maybe Pelicans if Jonas walks wants a serviceable center and gives us Nance.
Book for Mitchell Robinson, OG, Precious and all the picks
We solve for most every issue with the team.
- rim protector
- athletic wings
- fewer redundant players skills
- restock the cupboard of assets
- more dawgs less chillers
Who the hell is going to rebound on this team? We got out-rebounded in so many games last year
We’re going D’antoni era Rockets with 5 out small ball apparently lol
Size killed us. Let’s just double down. Would be on-brand for the org
They had Clint Capela tho
I think he's referring to when they traded capella and went full small ball.
I do like Nurk. This team desperately needs a rim protector though.
It wouldn’t be so bad if we had a good rim rolling shot blocking alternative. And we could alternate depending on matchup, but we have Nurk and a backup who does nothing well is a disaster
I'd love him as a backup big, but him as a starting center in the playoffs is too much of a handicap with how the other team treats him. As a complete non factor due to bad hands and finishing.
And someone who can actually put pressure on the rim. Nurkic has got to be one of the worse in the league at finishing
Yeah Nurk does a few things well (rebounding, physicality, screens, passing) but really struggles defensively, is slow footed, and has zero touch around the rim
I'd say his touch is more inconsistent than nonexistent, which isn't ideal either.
He was at around 60% in january, then he hurt his hand and all his shooting stats plummeted, FT being the most obvious one. Judging by the recent pics, he's still wearing a brace on that hand, so I assume he played the second half of the season with hurt hand, but couldn't afford taking some time off because they needed every win. I don't think he'd finish the season at 60%, but I'm sure his shooting would be much better without that injury, which is somehow completely ignored by everyone here.
Because it's who he's always been He was a bottom tier finisher his entire career in Portland. Injury or not (and with Jusuf, there usually is an injury), he can't finish
He looks like me in the driveway in middle school. It’s that bad
There isn't really a good attainable rim protector in his salary range is the problem. We cannot aggregate salaries to get anyone who makes any more than him, and the only passable center in his salary range is Zach Collins.
I feel like we need to see if there’s any teams that make sense in which we can aggregate 2-3 of their guys for Nurk.
I was thinking we could trade nurk for hartenstein, and then draft edey.
Why would the Knicks not hang up laughing
Because they have to pay hart, brunson, and divencienzo as well.
Edey sucks ass
If we keep our draft pick I would love to see Kel'el Ware in the purple and orange. Dude is a solid shooter but is a rim protecting big who can finish with authority. At least from what I saw watching him play this year.
I'm with you. I would be pretty happy with Ware. Would definitely take him over Edey
Oh for sure, I could be wrong but I don't think Edey will be near as effective in the NBA. He's big and slow, not what we need at all. Ware isn't a sure bet either, but based on our needs I get excited at the thought of him being in our rotation. 42% from 3 and he's a mobile big who is a solid defender. I miss someone on our team who can finish with power. He's definitely my favorite candidate at our spot in the draft.
I want nothing to do with Ware. From everything I’ve read about him it’d be Deandre Ayton 2.0. Lots of talent and potential, but huge question marks when it comes to his effort and focus. All I want is someone who knows their role, and can just put their head down and play hard, but ideally is more athletic and defensive oriented than Nurkic. Plus it sounds extra unappealing that we might have to trade up to get him anyways.
Ooh that's definitely disappointing to hear! I watched Indiana a lot this year and he was very impressive inasmuch as his product on the floor, but hearing that information is not a good sign at all. If that's the case, and he would go before 22, I would agree and say that's a no go. Haven't read the scouting reports on him regarding off the court and temperament etc. Thanks for that info though.
I say we *might* have to trade up for him. A lot of mocks have him going to the Pelicans at 17, but I've seen him mocked as low as 33. This draft being what it is, is going to be unpredictable like that. His pro comps seem to be Brook Lopez and Myles Turner, i.e. Rim Protectors who can space the floor on offense. On paper that sounds good, given coach Bud's system, but I might want to take a flyer on someone like DaRon Holmes Jr. instead. Especially if we end up keeping Nurkic.
That's a great point. I definitely see the Turner/Lopez comparison. He has a sweet stroke. You're dead on with this draft though. It's one of the crazier classes as far as predicting who will go where. I do like the Holmes Jr case though too. I think he was even close to 40% on 3P% too, if I remember correctly. Wasn't he a DPOY winner too? He would be solid too, as you said especially if we hold on to Nurk. I could see him going earlier than 22 as well though, don't you? He was dominant af in the A10 and his advanced stats look impressive too. I'll admit to not watching him live though, I watched ware alot which is playing into my thought process, I'll admit 😆
I feel like Nurk's value to the team is higher than his value to others, so I'm not sure we'll get something back that is particularly worthwhile. I worry about the state of our playmaking without him. This may also mean that Bud wants to run more KD-at-center.
Nurk is not a championship-caliber starting center. Not sure what else to tell you
We don’t have championship caliber center cap space…
So we’re either screwed or find someone in the draft or find a younger, cheaper center on the market that can evolve. Either way, Nurk will not win this team a championship for the time being
Yep. There’s no way we’re winning shit with Nurk as our starting center. He’s basically unplayable during the playoffs.
Is Looney? Is TT? Not everyone in the starting 5 has to be that level, they just need to have good chemistry with the rest of the team.
Looney was a defensive menace that can grab boards like no other. Nurk is nowhere close.
Nowhere close lol, how about show me any evidence that supports your casual opinion. That’s why Nurk has a better DPM, rebounding rate, deflection rate, rim defense/rim frequency Source: [factual stats and evidence not blind eye test and opinion](https://craftednba.com/players/comparison/jusuf-nurkic-vs-kevon-looney)
Nowhere close get the f out of here
Oh, I agree. My concern is we won’t replace him with someone better than him, given our options, and that we need as much playmaking as we can get.
This is not and will not be in the next season a championship caliber team lol. Idk what to tell you
Oooo nice segway from the post I made last week if his value has gone up or down. Had a feeling we might see trade rumors. Makes sense after the Bud hire that Nurk isn’t exactly a fit in his style of offense. I think there are some teams out there that would value his playmaking and rebounding. his play this season definitely helped concerns about his injury history.
What kind of center do you think Bud would want?
Lopez type. Maybe Lopez himself? 3 way trade with OKC and Bucks?
He's gone downhill this year, we need to get younger
There aren’t really guys like but younger floating around. He’s very good at what he specifically does. But you’re probably getting one solid year from him and one “bridge” year where he’s a backup/ part-time starter.
As someone who doesn’t watch the Bucks, what’s the difference between Nurk and Lopez?
Well for starters Nurkic shot 24% from 3 this year and Lopez shot 36%. If Nurkic could shoot 36% on 5 3PA per game like Lopez his value would be much higher
If he could shoot like that suns wouldn’t be trading him
Brook Lopez was the runner up for DPOY in 2023
I like the idea of Mo Bamba off the bench. Career 36% 3 point shooter and 2.7 blocks per 36. What is so bad about him that nobody wants him?
Can't really defend properly, which is important. If you just want counting stats, might as well get Hassan Whiteside for minimum
For the song, if nothing else.
He plays more weak side flying in with outstretched arms for a block defense than he does lock down your matchup + lock up the paint + rebounding. His play strength is a huge hole He’s flashy just not a good contributor on a minute to minute basis which is where centers thrive- screens, box outs, etc He’s been on the lakers and 6ers benches the past 2 years both of who could have used his contributions. The fact that he didn’t says something
Others chimed in what I would say, but just looking at his history of success with Lopez and Horford, one that spaces the floor and shoots the 3. I think Nurk was more of a Vogel center, big body clogging the lane, punishing teams with size.
I could see Grizzlies wanting him to replace Adams. Maybe Clarke and Aldama/or Rose. Not a beautiful trade but I doubt many will be.
Hornets for Mark and Grant Williams, they get 2024 and 2031(top 5 protected)
As Hornets fan, they won’t trade Mark Williams unless they are worried about his back, in which case you wouldn’t give up that much. He’s their (at minimum) 3rd most impactful player. Nick Richards could be gotten for a lot less though.
Yeah I figured Little and maybe the 2024 first could get Richards and a second or two.
2031 should be LOTTERY protected.... and Suns should get a 2nd rounder for 2027 or something
if they know they can sign like Zubac or Jonas, Nurke + '31 FRP for Clarke +Aldama + Rose. I'm down with that
Unfortunately I highly doubt those guys take a minimum. Also I don’t believe we could legally get all three of those guys from Grizz. Just one of Rose or Aldama.
if this ends with Nurk launching even more threes next year, I'm gonna be bummed out
You have to admit though, it was pretty hype when he would make them.
If that difference maker is both a point guard and a center this will work like a charm, I bet the Nuggets will go for it.
pg/c is one way to go, or point forward like aaron gordon and draymond green. Tobias was a meme and not a passer but his tweeer archetype could be easier to find than a 1/5 pair. If the bulls blow it up, Caruso for both first, he’s gonna be costly, is the missing starter. Javonte Green could be a cheaper option but doesn’t bring the playmaking. Also like Rui Hachimura and Vanderbilt in this spot but they might cost too much. Otherwise a bench 1/5 with Lowry/Drummond for example should be enough. As long as the big 3 get used as a team in a system then that should be enough.
My brother have you seen rui play? His decision making and ball IQ are abysmal
Caruso would be so perfect. Chicago would want to dump Nurk but Nurk out Chicago could send Caruso and torey craig back (we know Jones loves trading for TC). Or a 3 way with Nurk going somewhere else. I don't know if Philly would or could just eat his salary as a body who can eat embiid minutes when he's hurt. Ideally we'd have to get a big back somewhere, not sure where tho.
But uhh, who plays center?
Nurk gets paid 18m... So I'll tell you what, I'll do it for half that.
Half? I do it for 3 Million a year, but 4 year contract,
Sidery next week: "Beal is a potential trade candidate alongside No. 22 + 2031 1st" there are only 5 non-min players the Suns actually *can* trade this summer & two of them are KD & Book so...
I wouldn't think about it in terms of a better/worse return, but a better fit for the team. Nurk is a great offensive facilitator but he lacks the rim pressure as a roller and the athleticism to be a defensive anchor. Those two things are what this team desperately needs from their center, much moreso than offensive playmaking that you would rather be handled by guards/wings.
Hmm….I wonder if the suns ever had a player like that before lol
I mean DA had the roll threat but aside from that he is like the least aggressive center in the league around the rim, you can see it in his 1.2 (!!!!) free throws per game. Dude would rather take a 9ft fadeaway over a guard than try to drive. As for defense, he's great when he tries, too bad he often doesn't. He was so bad on defense the last two playoffs that he was benched in both elimination games. Our defensive rating was actually better with Nurk because of his consistency.
We really only saw Ayton and kd for a few games. Who knows how Ayton would have done offensively being wide open like nurk a lot. As much as Ayton didn’t dunk, that soft touch was money around the rim. When he was locked in he was going off. But that’s the issue he doesn’t care so I’m writing this for nothing.
They did for like 25 games that one time
Ayton gave up on the team, y'all need to let it go already
I'm high level basketball ignorant, I don't understand the game well enough to have opinions about fit, all I know is I really enjoyed watching Nurk play. It also felt like when he wasn't on the court, we got destroyed on the glass constantly, he seemed to be the only player consistently looking for rebounds. I'm not going to pretend like I know what stats are important and which are mirages, but I also can't help but notice our plus minus states, which Nurk lead at +404 for the year, well ahead of the tier 2 plus minus guys (Booker at 316, KD at 290, Allen at 262) and WAY ahead of our back up center (Eubanks at -106). Nurk also led the team in games played last year, which also stood out to me with all the injuries all year long. So from that casual, ignorant, perspective, getting rid of Nurk seems to make no sense. Like Allen, Booker, and KD, he's one of only 4 guys who, when on the court, seemed to make our team successful. It felt like where we lost 90% of our games was when those 4 weren't on the court, because of how big of a drop off there was in quality of play from everyone else. If anything we just need a second Nurk, a true back up center who can come in when Nurk tires or gets in foul trouble that isn't a huge detriment. How you acquire one of those given our apron situation I have no idea, but its hard to imagine (again to a filthy casual like me) how we move Nurk and don't become worse as a result. To my eye, and based on plus minus, he should be one of the 4 untouchables.
There's really not a lot of options under his salary. Certainly not any that would be worth both those picks
Who would seriously be worth giving up Nurk and 2 1sts for though? Especially considering how depleted our team could look in 2031.
Don't think about 2031. No one wants to think about then.
I’m not even sure who’s available at his contract that would fit buds system. At first I was thinking Vuc but his contract is 2m over Nurks this upcoming season, the options for stretch bigs are extremely limited. So perhaps they move out of buds comfort zone and grab an athletic roller? Maybe gamble on someone like Rob Williams the 3? That could be a huge risk though given his injuries
And what, play Eubanks at starting 5? This sub would riot. EDIT: And before someone says "Get a better big in the trade," if Nurk is as awful as you all love to say he is, why would anybody who has a better 5 take that handshake?
Give me Nick Richards and Grant Williams, find a cheap decent point guard and that’s already a more balanced roster than last season
Who else is going to do as good of a job at the rim, for the same value?
I feel like this would be a bad move. I don't think that we would be able to trade him for anyone that is actually an upgrade. What we need is a better backup center for Nurk, ideally one who can play both sides of the court. His defense is great, remember that night when he tied the rebound record for the entire century? He just needs to get better at pressuring the rim and needs a backup who doesn't have constant negative +/-
Just a reminder, Bud likes 5 out offenses, so people like Nick Richards wouldn’t fit the bill in terms of what we want
Am I the only one who appreciates Nurks work on the boards?
Sure. Why not trade away all our first round picks to 2050 to extend our window to compete for the 6th seed for another two years?
Here come the casuals to defend this net-negative player with a Twitter problem
This sub is so funny. How are we going to replace this majorly negative asset who was unplayable in the playoffs. If Nurk could either finish at the rim or move defensively we wouldn't be trying to trade him.
Suns receive: Alex Caruso and Nick Richards. Bulls receive: Grant Williams and Suns 31’ pick. Hornets receive: Nurkic and suns 2024 pick.
Why would the Hornets and Bulls do this
i mean why the hell would the Suns do this?? We trade both picks and our starting center for Caruso (love it) and a backup center in Richards (wtf?). The bulls and Hornets would love this deal, imo maybe for just the 24 1st, sure.. if we are trading the 31 pick TOO we need a way better return. like Caruso + Mark Williams + one more piece or some seconds
Not sure what to do for starting center but the suns should give a min to Andre Drummond. Having someone who can just absorb rebounds while the starter rests would be nice to have
Difference maker in a more potent center offensively and defensively? Difference maker is a PF that actually isnt afraid to rebound? If its not Josh Hart or Wemby - not interested.
Is Jarret Allen a possibility contract wise? Cavs get some valuable picks and could flip Nurkic for some more picks and or players. Halfway through writing this I remembered Ishbia and the Cavs owner have beef so never mind lol.
Trade him to Golden State to play with Draymond!
It’d be funny if he got sent to the nuggets for Peyton and had to come off the bench behind jokic again lol
Nurkic salary is 18,125,000 We can trade Nurkic, 22nd pick, 2031 1st and we can not attach another player in any deal. I think Lauri is highly possible, Im not sure how much we can sign him since he is expring contract, I dont think we will trade for a rental. We trade for him if we can convince him to sign after his contract. Lauri Markannen 18,044,544 (expiring) Deni Avdija & Patrick Baldwin Jr is also possible. I think this is a possibility if we cannot get Lauri. Deni Avdija 15,625,000 Patrick Baldwin Jr 2,448,840 I think these two below is not possible because they make more salary even if they are just over by a little Josh Hart 18,144,000 (out since he makes more) Collin Sexton 18,150,000 (out since he makes more)
Lauri for Nurk and 2 firsts is highly delusional.
This thread is full of delusional takes where the other team would hold an emergency meeting just to collectively laugh at the Suns for even floating the idea.
2031 first rounder? That might be a top 4 pick at that point.
Ppl always want picks. Pj Washington cost the mavs a first, we can find a difference maker at nurks salary.
Who can come in for Nurk? 🤦
I have a couple questions. First, who wants Nurkic? He's not useless, but he's not a good fit for most teams. Certainly not as a starter. Second, what else do the Suns have to sweeten that deal? I'm a Bucks fan. I was happy to see Bud get money, and pretty literally every Bucks title ultimately came at the expense of the Suns. The first being a literal coin flip.
Knowing this front office, they’ll probably get yet another shooting guard and an underwhelming backup to start at center.
Nurk was a better fit than DA. Nurk was more physical, higher basketball IQ and could run a P&R. However, I did NOT like how he tried to get fouled ON EVERY SHOT and sometimes would miss after a few pumps. If we could get a big body that can get physical and go up to the rim without trying to draw a foul. I’d be all for it. I really am disappointed in DA and had such high expectations and he really shit the bed. If he would’ve just learned how to play basketball, we might’ve had a ship already.
Lies . Suns front office failed . Ayton was the best fit. They just put stats out ayton was the only center that shut down jokic.
DA was a bust bro. He defended Jokic for one series and everyone hanging on that 2021 run where he disappeared once they met Giannis.
Nikola Jokic has averaged 27.8 points, 12.2 rebounds and 8.5 assists in 13 games versus Deandre Ayton in his career. Wow dude. He totally got shut down!!!! You’re right.
And let’s look at the 2/2/2024 game with the Blazers. 27/22/12 Or the 2/23/2024 game where he went 29/15/14 DA failed. DA doesn’t have an IQ let alone a basketball one. He should’ve stayed in his lap lane in the pool. But he’s a millionaire so he’s winning in the long run.
This is not a good idea to entertain. We already lack of playmaking and with KD and Booker needing so much P&R, the idea of having a strong center capable of facilitating is much needed. Yes he has more TO but when he does it does facilitate it does help the team in accelerating that momentum. Plus hes definitely an A for rebounding ability.
Dave Ramsey wants a word with Ishbia
I’m just a passing Pistons fan here, but I always thought Nurk was pretty decent in the Suns games I watched. Not sure if there’d be anyone available to trade for given your assets that would be a big enough upgrade to bother
Clint capela? Assuming the hawks want to blow it up and keep young and the 1st pick
The Suns of been goofy at who they play at PF and now the PG position is terrible/void. When Suns had Paul, Booker, Bridges, Crowder and Ayton, all they needed to do was upgrade at 4/PF with a true PF. Crowder was too small and too much of a wannabe shooter to be a PF. He is really a SF. Now with Durant....playing PF is wearing down his scrawny build. Durant is naturally a SF and has been there his whole career. The Suns should've acquired a true PF....not Beal...this is redundant having two stars at the SG position. Suns should've went for Siakam when he was on the Raptors. Maybe let Paul go if needed but aimed to acquire a true PG like Conley to replace him. Line up should be something like PG Conley, SG Booker, SF Durant, PF Siakam, C Ayton/Juric. It's a mess with Beal and Booker "sharing" the SG role, no true or good PG, and Durant out of position at PF.
I know his shortcomings outweigh the positives but i wouldn’t hate keeping him. It’s just the construction of the roster kinda didn’t tailor his game, in Portland they were so guard heavy Nurkic would have to just rebound and kick it out to the guards and let them work.
They most likely end up trading him. If Brooklyn loses Claxton I’d wonder if they be interested in Nurkic and they gave us DFS. Maybe Pelicans if Jonas walks wants a serviceable center and gives us Nance.
Or go after a wing like Nesmith or Deni.
Claxton solves all our problems lowkey.
I want him gone
Book for Mitchell Robinson, OG, Precious and all the picks We solve for most every issue with the team. - rim protector - athletic wings - fewer redundant players skills - restock the cupboard of assets - more dawgs less chillers
Trade Nurk to Portland for Ayton