Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports

Jusuf Nurkic Earns Praise from Nikola Jokic for Defensive Contributions

Originally posted on Burn City Sports | By Jacob Hardin | Last updated 3/6/24

In the Suns’ victory over the Denver Nuggets on Tuesday, before fouling out, Jusuf Nurkic grabbed 12 rebounds and limited Nikola Jokic to just 6 points in the first half.

This defensive performance received some high praise from Jokic himself, who noted, “He can defend really well. he’s a big guy who can in some situation switch 1-5. Monster on the glass. he’s a great fit for them and he’s embracing his role.”

Video credits to @DNVR_Nuggets.

Nikola Jokic on Jusuf Nurkic: "He can defend really well. He's a big guy who can in some situations switch 1-5. Monster on the glass. He's a great fit for them and he's embracing his role." pic.twitter.com/t2IMReAbdN

— DNVR Nuggets (@DNVR_Nuggets) March 6, 2024

You know you are doing something right when two-time MVP Jokic is completing your defense.

Beyond his defensive contributions, Jusuf Nurkic has been dominating the boards in the Suns’ recent games.

Nurkic has equaled Charles Barkley’s franchise record by securing 88 rebounds over a five-game stretch.

Crashing the boards

Over the past five games, Nurk has grabbed 88 rebounds, tying Charles Barkley for the most rebounds over a five game span by a Sun since at least 1975-76!

(h/t @Stathead) pic.twitter.com/rVdvmwhWT5

— Phoenix Suns (@Suns) March 6, 2024