3 goals for Suns’ Jusuf Nurkic for the 2023-24 season
2. Be a force on the defensive end
Nurkic isn’t known as a lockdown defender, which most fans think is his biggest flaw. It is understandable, but he has to transform himself into a dependable player on defense.
He doesn’t have to rack up tons of blocks and steals for the team, but many would appreciate it if he did. During the Suns’ preseason games, fans have seen how attentive the center is on the defensive end.
Although he doesn’t show off incredible athleticism to highlight what he does on the defensive end, he still gets the job done.
Frank Vogel called Jusuf Nurkic an elite defensive rebounder and said he should win most of his matchups because of his physicality.
— Trevor Booth (@TrevorMBooth) October 5, 2023
Also: “He’s a great passing big man.” pic.twitter.com/OdsEBWpiCg
Vogel believes that Nurkic can contribute a lot on the defensive end. He’s already a reliable defensive rebounder, which could make it easy for him to focus on other defensive tasks.
"“You just said the words, ‘the defensive anchor,’ and his ability to pass the basketball offensively with the perimeter firepower that we have makes him a great fit for our system,” the Suns’ head coach said about his expectations of Nurkic on defense. “Defensively, just the size at the basket, and being an elite defensive rebounder is gonna help us secure the boards and get our guys out on the break.”"
Although Vogel keeps stressing that he is an excellent defensive rebounder, the actions of Nurkic on the court might be a great sign for the team. The former 16th pick could achieve the goal of becoming a defensive threat gradually.