Nurkic Embraces Jazz Role Amid Trade Rumors, Avdija Shines in Portland, and Injury Updates Across the Northwest
Jusuf Nurkic’s time in Utah has had its ups and downs lately - literally. After singing the praises of the Jazz organization just a few weeks ago, the veteran big man has bounced in and out of the lineup, dealing first with a toe injury and then logging his first three DNP-CDs of the season. But if you think that’s dulled his enthusiasm for being in Salt Lake City, think again.
Despite being on an expiring $19.4 million contract and finding himself in the middle of trade chatter ahead of the February 5 deadline, Nurkic is making it clear: he’s all in on the Jazz. With a grin, he even called himself a “Jazz for life.”
“I mean, I obviously love being here,” Nurkic said. “It’s been a great experience so far, and hopefully we continue the journey for a long time.
But you can’t really control a lot of things. It’s not probably bad or wrong or good to be in the trade rumors - it’s something in between.
But if it’s up to me, I’m not leaving. I want to finish the season with the Jazz.”
Around the organization, there’s a real appreciation for what Nurkic brings to the table. The front office has taken note of his impact - he currently leads the NBA in screen assists, a stat that might fly under the radar but speaks volumes about his unselfish, team-first mentality. On a young Jazz roster still finding its identity, Nurkic has been a steadying presence both on the court and in the locker room.
That doesn’t guarantee he’ll stay past the trade deadline. But even if he’s moved, there’s a scenario where he could return to Utah as a free agent this summer - potentially backing up Walker Kessler in the 2026-27 season. For now, though, Nurkic is focused on the present and clearly enjoying the ride.
Avdija’s Breakout Season in Portland
Meanwhile, up in Portland, Deni Avdija is turning heads with a breakout campaign that’s been impossible to ignore. The sixth-year forward is averaging career highs across the board - 26.2 points and 6.9 assists per game - and has quickly become a cornerstone for the Trail Blazers’ rebuild.
What’s even more remarkable is the value Portland is getting. Avdija is only in the second year of a four-year, $55 million deal - a contract that’s suddenly looking like one of the best bargains in the league. But don’t expect any regrets from the 23-year-old.
“It gave me a lot of calmness, because I know I’m secure,” Avdija said. “That was my goal.
I told my agent, and he was like, ‘I think you should sign for less years,’ but I was like, ‘If I outplay my contract, I outplay my contract. We’ll deal with that later.’
I’m not going to worry about $10 million more or $20 million less. This is what I got, and I’m going to say thank you and not take it for granted.
It’s still a lot of money.”
That kind of mindset - grounded, team-focused, and mature beyond his years - is exactly what Portland needs right now. While the Blazers continue to retool, Avdija has become a stabilizing force, not just with his production but with his approach to the game.
Scoot Henderson Nearing Return
The Blazers could soon get another boost, too. Rookie guard Scoot Henderson, who has yet to play this season due to a torn left hamstring, was seen running full-court sprints after practice on Tuesday - a promising sign that he’s inching closer to a return.
“He is progressing,” said head coach Tiago Splitter. “He’s getting better.
I understand - everybody’s a little bit frustrated about this, but it’s a tough injury. It’s one where people tend to have a second injury, so we’ve got to be careful with him.
He’s a big part of our franchise. We’ve got to protect him.
And I think we’re doing the right thing, and he’s feeling better day by day.”
There’s no timetable just yet, but the fact that Henderson is back on the court - even in limited fashion - is a step in the right direction. Portland’s long-term vision revolves around him, and the organization is taking no chances with his health.
Nuggets Injury Watch: Jokic and Valanciunas
In Denver, the Nuggets are navigating some injury turbulence of their own - and it starts with the reigning MVP. Nikola Jokic is dealing with a hyperextended left knee, and according to head coach David Adelman, his recovery has been “kind of up and down.”
That’s not exactly what Nuggets fans want to hear, especially with the postseason race heating up. But there is some good news: Jonas Valanciunas, who’s been sidelined with a right calf strain, is trending in the right direction and is expected to return before Jokic.
Denver has the depth to weather a short-term storm, but the big picture is clear - they need Jokic healthy if they’re going to make another serious title push. For now, the team is playing the long game, prioritizing recovery over rushing back.
Final Thoughts
From Nurkic’s loyalty in Utah to Avdija’s emergence in Portland and the Nuggets’ cautious approach with Jokic, the Northwest Division is full of storylines that go beyond the box score. Whether it’s trade rumors, breakout performances, or injury timelines, these developments are shaping the second half of the season in a big way.
With just a couple of weeks until the trade deadline, expect the drama to ramp up - but for now, the focus is on chemistry, health, and opportunity. And in a league where things can change overnight, that’s more than enough to keep fans locked in.