Jusuf Nurkic played his first complete season for the Portland Trail Blazers and looks to reach a long term agreement with the team.
Jusuf Nurkic posted career-highs across the board in his first real season as a NBA starter. But unlike CJ McCollum, he is unhappy with himself and the team. To Nurkic, 49 wins and a division title mean nothing unless Portland advanced deeper in the playoffs.
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Even though he wasn’t proud of the finish, Nurk explained his growth as a player this year. He attributed experience to this development, as well as saying, “The expectation level from each teammate and coach and fans, just to be in a position to play that many games.”
Jusuf Nurkic continued his praise of the organization, handing Coach Terry Stotts a few compliments. He said, “I love Stotts. I enjoy playing for him through the year…I think he’s a great communicator.”
Free Agency
As expected, a major portion of the exit interview revolved around his pending free agency. Nurk’s rookie contract is up and the Blazers must hand its big man some money. Unfortunately, the team may not have what it takes to keep him in the Pacific Northwest.
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Nurkic hopes to stay with Portland, though. When asked if he wants a long term extension, he responded, “Yes. Definitely. I find my home here.”
There is still some concern with the ability to reach an agreement with the Bosnian Beast. When addressing free agency, most players leave it at, “It’s not up to me but I hope to stay here,” or something of the type.
Nurk, on the other hand, stressed his play warranting a deal, as if he expects a big paycheck that Portland clearly doesn’t have room for. He said a few times, “I do my part on the court and I’m expecting my representation to do their part too.”
At the end of saying he definitely wants to stay, Nurk continued, “Definitely need to agree both sides…my agent and people here figure out the rest. Or not.”
Taking a brief pause and adding “or not” is scary for Blazers fans hoping to retain him. He wants proper compensation for being the team’s third option and starting center, but that may not be a possibility.
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Jusuf Nurkic will bounce back and forth between Portland and home (Bosnia) this summer. He intends to primarily focus on his body like last offseason. As a 23-year-old, Nurkic understands his room for improvement on both ends of the floor as well.