Jusuf Nurkic sidelined for rest of season after nose surgery, Jazz announce
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Utah Jazz center Jusuf Nurkic will miss the remainder of the season after undergoing surgery on his nose, the team confirmed on Monday.
The procedure ends Nurkic’s campaign just months after he arrived in Salt Lake City, making him the latest Jazz player to be ruled out long-term. The club did not disclose when the injury occurred or provide a timetable beyond confirming that he will not return this year.
Another hit to an already short-handed roster
Nurkic’s absence further depletes a Utah frontcourt that has been dealing with multiple injuries. The team has previously lost several key contributors for extended stretches, forcing head coach Will Hardy to rely on a shortened rotation during the playoff push.
Before the surgery, the 7-footer had been a mainstay in the starting lineup, providing interior defense and rebounding while averaging double figures in both points and boards. His departure leaves veteran forwards Kelly Olynyk and Walker Kessler to shoulder an even larger workload.
The Jazz, who entered the week on the fringe of the Western Conference playoff picture, did not immediately announce whether they plan to add another big man via free agency or the G League to fill Nurkic’s roster spot.
Source: New York Post
