Player-Coach Rift Dogs Suns, Who Face Clippers Next

The Phoenix Suns enter Monday night’s matchup against the Los Angeles Clippers with momentum, having won seven of their last nine games. However, an ongoing rift between former starting center Jusuf Nurkic and head coach Mike Budenholzer casts a shadow over their recent success. Meanwhile, the Clippers arrive in Phoenix on a hot streak of their own, winning six of their last eight games.

Suns Navigate Tensions Amid Strong Performance

Despite the Suns’ recent surge, Nurkic’s comments following Saturday’s win over the Washington Wizards highlight a brewing conflict. Nurkic, who hasn’t played in nine games, revealed to the Arizona Republic that he and Budenholzer haven’t spoken in two months.

Budenholzer responded by emphasizing that playing time is earned. “There’s been communication,” Budenholzer said. “We’ve got three or four guys who play the same position. We’re going to go with who gives us our best chance.”

The Suns have thrived with Nick Richards, who was acquired from Charlotte on Jan. 15. Richards has quickly made an impact, recording two double-doubles in four games, including a career-best 20 points and 19 rebounds against Washington.

“They’ve challenged me to do more,” Richards said. “There are other things I have to step up on.”

Clippers Ride Hot Streak into Phoenix

The Clippers head into Monday’s game sitting sixth in the Western Conference. They’re fresh off a 127-117 victory over the Milwaukee Bucks, showcasing their strong defense and disciplined play.

James Harden led the charge with 40 points, while Norman Powell added 33. Powell, thriving in a starting role this season, is averaging a career-high 23.9 points per game.

“He’s made the most of his opportunity,” Clippers coach Tyronn Lue said. “He puts in the work every single day to get better.”

The Clippers boast the NBA’s third-best defense, allowing just 106.8 points per game. They’ve also minimized turnovers recently, committing just seven against Milwaukee, well below their season average.

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Key Matchups to Watch

• Kevin Durant vs. Clippers’ Defense: Durant leads the Suns with 27.2 points per game. Can the Clippers’ third-ranked defense contain him?
• James Harden’s Momentum: After a 40-point performance, Harden will look to stay hot and lead the Clippers’ offense.
• Suns’ Frontcourt Chemistry: With Richards stepping up, Phoenix’s ability to handle Nurkic’s absence and maintain production will be crucial.

Suns and Clippers Clash Again

Phoenix won both meetings in Los Angeles earlier this season by narrow margins, but the Clippers’ improved form presents a tougher challenge. Devin Booker, averaging 25.5 points per game, acknowledged the importance of the upcoming stretch. “Our true tests are coming up this week,” Booker said. “We’ve got to get ready for the Clippers on Monday.”

With internal tensions in Phoenix and the Clippers firing on all cylinders, this game is shaping up to be a high-stakes showdown. Can the Suns rise above the noise and defend their home court, or will the Clippers continue their strong run?