Phoenix Suns Centre Jusuf Nurkic Out with Ankle Injury vs. Jazz

Source: [ESPN]

The Phoenix Suns announced Sunday that centre Jusuf Nurkic is out with an ankle injury and will miss the team's matchup against the Utah Jazz. The Suns acquired Nurkic in a trade with the Portland Trail Blazers earlier this season and he has been a key part of their success, averaging 15.0 points, 11.1 rebounds, and 3.0 assists per game.

Nurkic suffered the injury in the third quarter of the Suns' 111-97 win over the Dallas Mavericks on Friday night. He left the game and did not return.

What does this mean for the Suns?

The Suns' rotation

Nurkic's absence will mean more minutes for Deandre Ayton and Dario Saric. Ayton has started at centre all season, alongside a power forward rotation of Mikal Bridges, Cameron Johnson, and Torrey Craig. Saric will likely see increased playing time at power forward.

The Suns' defence

Nurkic is a key part of the Suns' defence. He is one of their best rim protectors and his size and strength make him a tough matchup for opposing bigs. With Nurkic out, the Suns' defence will be weakened.

The Suns' playoff hopes

The Suns are currently in fourth place in the Western Conference and are vying for a playoff spot. Nurkic's absence is a setback, but they still have a strong team and should be able to make the playoffs.

What's next?

The Suns will host the Jazz on Sunday night. They will then travel to Los Angeles to face the Lakers on Tuesday night.