It’s widely acknowledged that once a player gets on the bad side of an outspoken veteran like Draymond Green , there’s little chance of escaping their scorn.
While delving into the Phoenix Suns ’ prospects and the adjustments they need to make in order to become championship contenders, the former DPOY was quick to undermine the role of Jusuf Nurkic , emphasizing the team’s apparent absence of a traditional, reliable rim protector.
Nurkic clapped back at Green
While the Suns faced a significant identity crisis in the fourth quarters this season, characterized by the struggle of their Big 3 to find synergy on the court and elevate each other’s offensive performance, Nurkic stood out as the pillar anchoring their defense. Despite averaging 27.3 minutes per game, ‘The Bosnian Beast’ recorded 10.9 points, 11.0 rebounds, 1.1 steals, and 1.1 blocks per game.
In the wake of Draymond belittling his hard-fought efforts, Jusuf fired back with pointed sarcasm, stating how the four-time NBA Champ 'still needs help' and is unable to get over the past.
Jusuf and Dray have been exchanging blows
These two players are no strangers to verbal spats. An incident in December kicked off their war of words, and they’ve been locked in ever since. Nurkic started by accusing the four-time All-Star of needing assistance to control his aggressiveness on the court after Green punched him in the face.
Furthermore, after the Warriors topped the Suns 113-112 in their last regular season meeting in February 2024, Jusuf voiced his belief that Draymond doesn’t deserve a second chance, stating firmly that he is incapable of rectifying his antics.
In retaliation, when the Suns were clean-swept by the Timberwolves, with Nurkic failing to impose his presence against Karl Anthony Towns or Rudy Gobert (averaging 7.8 points and 8.3 rebounds per game), Green took aim at Nurkic, pointing out his historically low playoff-winning percentage .
Clearly, both players are eager to escalate their ongoing feud. Given the likelihood of their respective teams bolstering their rosters to contend for the championship next season, expect the beef between them to continue on and off the court.
Related: "Just don't stay [too] long on podcast, gonna be late for therapy session" - Jusuf Nurkic fires back at Draymond Green
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