Jusuf Nurkic: Nuggets’ Center May Make Season Debut on Saturday
Denver Nuggets center Jusuf Nurkic may make his season debut on Saturday against the Golden State Warriors after missing all of this season so far due to a torn patellar tendon.
Nuggets beat writer for the Deenver Post, Chris Dempsey, reports that Jusuf Nurkic is getting close to returning from his injury, and could make his season debut as soon as Saturday:
Good news for the #Nuggets. Jusuf Nurkic may make his season debut on Friday at Golden St, coach Michael Malone said.
— Chris Dempsey (@chrisadempsey) December 30, 2015
This of course is excellent news for the Denver Nuggets and their fans. Last season during his rookie campaign, Jusuf Nurkic endeared himself to the Nuggets and their fan base with his gritty play down low and his penchant for playing on the rough side.
Dempsey also reported that Jusf Nurkic’s status for Saturday’s game against the Golden State Warriors is contingent on his activity at Friday’s practice, according to Head Coach Mike Malone. If he performs well, Jusuf Nurkic will play, but will not exceed a minutes limit of 15 minutes.
Nurkic's performance in practice on Friday will be the determining factor in his availability. If he plays, he'll be limited to 15 minutes
— Chris Dempsey (@chrisadempsey) December 30, 2015
Last season, the former first round pick Jusuf Nurkic averaged 6.9 points and 6.2 boards per contest. With the revolving door at the center position with Nikola Jokic and Joffrey Lauvergne. Both have played well, but the addition of Jusuf Nurkic into the lineup would definitely inject some optimism to a disappointing and tumultuous start to the 2015-2016 season.
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For continued updates on the status of Jusuf Nurkic and the Denver Nuggets, keep it here at Mile High Maniac.