The Utah Jazz have expressed interest in re-signing center Jusuf Nurkic after the veteran big man produced one of his most productive recent seasons with the franchise, according to Michael Scotto of HoopsHype.
Nurkic, 31, became an unrestricted free agent after completing his four-year, $70 million contract, but Utah is exploring the possibility of bringing him back after his 2025-26 campaign. In 41 games with the Jazz, including 36 starts, Nurkic averaged 10.9 points, 10.4 rebounds, 4.8 assists and 1.3 steals while shooting 50.3% from the field and 35.2% from three-point range.
The production marked a notable bounce-back after a difficult 2024-25 season split between the Phoenix Suns and Charlotte Hornets. Nurkic averaged 8.9 points and 7.8 rebounds in 51 games that season, but his move to Utah helped restore his role as a high-impact interior presence.
His 4.8 assists per game were especially valuable for a center. Nurkic has built his career around playmaking from the frontcourt, and his 2025-26 assist average was the highest mark of his career. His ability to facilitate offense gave Utah another decision-maker alongside Lauri Markkanen and Keyonte George.
The Jazz finished the season 22-60, placing 15th in the Western Conference, but Nurkic’s individual numbers stood out within a young roster. Markkanen led Utah with 26.7 points per game, while George averaged 23.6 points and 6.1 assists. Nurkic ranked third on the team in rebounding behind his own 10.4 boards per game and helped stabilize a frontcourt that featured multiple developing big men.
Utah also has long-term decisions to make at center. The Jazz selected Walker Kessler’s replacement options and added young frontcourt pieces, while Kyle Filipowski averaged 11.4 points, 7.2 rebounds and 2.6 assists in 77 games during the season. The franchise also holds the No. 2 overall pick in the 2026 NBA Draft, giving the organization another opportunity to add a cornerstone talent.
The 2026 draft class includes several highly regarded prospects, including forwards AJ Dybantsa, Cameron Boozer and Caleb Wilson, along with center Aday Mara. Utah’s roster construction could determine whether Nurkic is viewed as a short-term veteran bridge or part of the team’s next competitive phase.
Nurkic’s outside shooting was another reason for Utah’s interest. He attempted 1.7 threes per game and connected at a career-best 35.2% rate from deep, allowing him to space the floor while still providing physicality and rebounding.
The Jazz entered the offseason with a young core and significant development ahead. Re-signing Nurkic would give Utah experience, interior size and passing ability while maintaining flexibility as the team continues building around its younger players.
