Jusuf Nurkic’s Season Ends for Utah Jazz with Nose Surgery
Published: February 24, 2026
Jazz Center to Undergo Procedure
The Utah Jazz will be without Jusuf Nurkic for the remainder of the 2025-26 season. The team announced that Nurkic will undergo a surgical procedure on his nose, effectively ending his first season in Utah.
BREAKING: Utah Jazz starting center Jusuf Nurkić will undergo a surgical procedure on his nose Wednesday that will sideline him for the remainder of the season, league sources tell me. pic.twitter.com/MFYjY333GU
Chris Haynes (@ChrisBHaynes)
The surgery is necessary due to ongoing breathing and sleeping difficulties stemming from a previous nose fracture. Nurkic had been managing the issue, being ruled out for the past two games, but a surgical solution is now deemed the best course of action.
Impact on the Jazz
Nurkic’s absence is a significant blow to the Jazz, particularly after Walker Kessler was previously ruled out for the season. He had grow the team’s primary starting center following Kessler’s injury, providing valuable playmaking, rebounding and screening on offense.
In 41 games this season, Nurkic averaged 10.9 points, 10.9 rebounds, and 4.8 assists in just over 26 minutes per game. He currently leads the Jazz roster in total rebounds and ranks third in total assists.
Nurkic’s Recent Performance
Despite the season-ending surgery, Nurkic had shown flashes of brilliance for the Jazz. He notably recorded three consecutive triple-doubles in January against the Minnesota Timberwolves, San Antonio Spurs, and Miami Heat.
Looking Ahead
Nurkic will be an unrestricted free agent this summer. The recovery period following surgery is expected to be approximately six weeks.
FAQ
- What is the reason for Jusuf Nurkic’s surgery? He is undergoing surgery to address breathing and sleeping difficulties related to a previous nose fracture.
- How long will Nurkic be out? He will be sidelined for the remainder of the 2025-26 season and is expected to recover in approximately six weeks.
- What were Nurkic’s stats this season? He averaged 10.9 points, 10.9 rebounds, and 4.8 assists in 41 games.