Jusuf Nurkic Gives A Timetable For His Return
By Chris Kirby
The Denver Nuggets should be getting a little stronger in the paint very shortly.
Rookie center Jusuf Nurkic has missed the past seven games with a sprained right ankle, during which the Nuggets have managed a 4-3 record, amid a coaching change.
“It warms my heart knowing just how he’s champing at the bit. He really wants to play. It’s so genuine. In a situation like this where there’s not many games left, you’re not in the playoff hunt and this kid really … he’s on me, he just wants to play.” -Melvin Hunt
According to The Denver Post, Nurkic could be returning to the court sooner rather than later.
“You know, it’s still so sore,” Nurkic said on Wednesday. “I try and practice when I can. I think in a couple of more days I’ll be fine.”
The Bosnian big man has had a successful rookie season thus far. He is averaging 7.2 points, 6.7 rebounds and 1.3 blocks per-game, in 45 games this campaign. He ranks second in rebounding and blocks, among first-year players.
Kenneth Faried has started at center during Nurkic’ absence, and he is expected to remain the starter, at least for the short-term. The team has played well with the new lineup, so Nurkic will initially come off of the bench when he returns.
Nurkic is listed as questionable for tonight’s game against the Golden State Warriors.