The Phoenix Suns had many strong performances on Wednesday night, leading to a close 116-115 win over the Chicago Bulls.
Four of their five starters were in double digits when the night was over, including Jusuf Nurkic.
The team’s big man had 20 points, 16 rebounds, 8 assists, and 2 steals.
According to StatMuse, that makes him the first Suns player to reach those numbers or better in a game since Charles Barkley.
Nurkic tonight:
20 PTS
16 REB
8 AST
2 STLThe first Sun to reach those numbers or better in a game since Charles Barkley. https://t.co/xxYaCRq1C1
— StatMuse (@statmuse) November 9, 2023
Just a few months ago, Suns fans were cautious and unsure about Nurkic.
Although he is clearly a talented player, they weren’t certain he’d be the right fit with the team.
This was especially true after his last few seasons with the Portland Trail Blazers.
He has been prone to many injuries and some have criticized him for not playing with enough passion and power.
During his eight games with the Suns, Nurkic has averaged 10.5 points, 9.4 rebounds, 4.8 assists, 1.5 steals, and 1 block per game.
He has certainly helped his team on multiple occasions.
They are now 4-4 for the young season.
The Suns have undergone so many changes over the last year and they have one goal in mind: total supremacy in the Western Conference.
They need a powerful and reliable big man in order for that to happen.
Will Nurkic answer the call?
This is the first time in his career that he’s playing for a team that could win the Finals and he is obviously inspired by being around such talent.
The season is very long so the version of Nurkic that fans saw on Wednesday will need to return often from now until the spring.
Nurkic is showing flashes of brilliance and they will need to remain consistent if the Suns hope to reach their goals.
NEXT: Stats Show 1 Team Is Winning The Blazers, Suns Trade So Far
