Despite being a third-string center at this point of his NBA career, Thaddeus Young strongly believes that he could still contribute at a high level for the Phoenix Suns , especially when the NBA playoffs start since Jusuf Nurkic and Drew Eubanks might “not be available” all the time.
“There’s going to be some opportunities where Nurk and Drew are not going to be able to play in certain games. Got to stay prepared for those opportunities. Me personally, I would like to be in rhythm,” Young said via Duane Rankin on X (formerly known as Twitter).
Jusuf Nurkic responded by posting Chimezie Metu’s big eyeballs picture as a reaction to Thaddeus Young’s words.
Thaddeus Young feels this way because his versatility helps the Phoenix Suns whenever their opponents play small ball since Jusuf Nurkic and Drew Eubanks are more traditional centers.
Jusuf Nurkic will play a pivotal role for the Phoenix Suns
While Thaddeus Young has a point, Frank Vogel and co. will still likely lean heavily on Jusuf Nurkic because of his paint presence and length that Young doesn’t have.
This was in full display against the Los Angeles Clippers, as Jusuf Nurkic went full Dennis Rodman mode, recording three points, 19 rebounds, and 10 assists. Overall, the Bosnian Beast is averaging 11.0 points, 11.1 rebounds, 3.9 assists, and 1.1 blocks per game this season.
Because Phoenix has elite shooters in Kevin Durant, Devin Booker, Bradley Beal, and Grayson Allen, Jusuf Nurkic doesn’t need to do much except grab rebounds, protect the rim, and provide the necessary physicality.
Phoenix have one more regular-season game against the Minnesota Timberwolves, which may help determine where they’ll stand in the Western Conference standings.
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