Jazz Center Nurkic Out for Rest of Season

Bosnian Beast to undergo nose surgery, miss remainder of 2025-26 campaign

Feb. 23, 2026 at 9:09pm

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Utah Jazz center Jusuf Nurkic will miss the rest of the 2025-2026 NBA season due to an upcoming surgery on his nose, according to reports. Nurkic has experienced breathing and sleeping complications since fracturing his nose a few years ago.

Why it matters

Nurkic's absence is a significant blow to the Jazz, who have been relying on the veteran center's production and leadership this season. The team will need to find ways to replace his contributions on both ends of the floor as they push for a playoff spot.

The details

Nurkic, a former Portland Trail Blazer, is scheduled to undergo the nose surgery on Tuesday. He has been averaging 10.9 points, 10.4 rebounds, 4.8 assists, and 1.3 steals per game this season while shooting 50% from the field, 35% from three-point range, and 55% from the free throw line.

  • Nurkic's surgery is scheduled for Tuesday, February 25, 2026.

The players

Jusuf Nurkic

A veteran center for the Utah Jazz who has been dealing with a nasal fracture and related breathing issues.

Chris Haynes

An NBA reporter who broke the news of Nurkic's upcoming surgery and season-ending injury.

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What they’re saying

“Nurkic has experienced breathing and sleeping complications since fracturing his nose a few years ago.”

— Chris Haynes, NBA Reporter

What’s next

The Jazz will need to explore options to replace Nurkic's production in the frontcourt as they push for a playoff spot in the Western Conference.

The takeaway

Nurkic's season-ending injury is a significant setback for the Jazz, who have relied on the veteran center's contributions this season. The team will need to find creative ways to fill the void left by Nurkic's absence as they aim to secure a postseason berth.