The Utah Jazz face the start of the 2026-27 NBA season without starting center Jusuf Nurkic, who is out for at least four weeks with a foot injury. This setback forces the front office to evaluate their depth in the paint just weeks before the regular season tips off. The team is coming off a split in its recent preseason games, beating the Denver Nuggets 109-97 on October 4 before a 117-106 loss to the same opponent on October 6.
With Nurkic sidelined until early November, the Jazz have time to explore the market for a temporary solution. The ideal candidate would provide reliable rebounding and interior defense without costing significant assets. General manager Justin Zanik is likely scanning rosters for players on expiring contracts or those who might be available for future draft considerations. Adding a veteran presence could help stabilize the rotation during this early-season stretch.
One name linked to the Jazz is Drew Eubanks, currently on a training camp deal with the New York Knicks. Eubanks is familiar with the Utah organization, having signed with the team as a free agent before the 2024 season. He was later traded to the LA Clippers and has moved around the league since. His energy and ability to set solid screens could fit well in a short-term role.
Another potential option is a player like Daniel Theis, known for his high basketball IQ and ability to stretch the floor slightly. His experience in playoff environments would be an asset for a young Jazz squad. A third, more physical choice could be a player such as Bismack Biyombo, who would offer immediate rim protection and rebounding off the bench. All three represent the kind of low-cost, high-effort players the Jazz might pursue.
The team's two preseason games against the Denver Nuggets offered a first glimpse at the rotation. In the October 4 victory, the Jazz defense held Denver to 97 points while finding offensive balance. Two nights later, the Nuggets adjusted and won 117-106, highlighting areas Utah needs to tighten up, especially on the defensive glass. These games are primarily for evaluation, but the split result shows both promise and room for growth as the team integrates new pieces.
Key players like Lauri Markkanen and Keyonte George will need to carry more of the scoring load early on. The absence of Nurkic's screening and passing from the high post will also change some offensive sets. Head coach Will Hardy will likely experiment with smaller lineups, using players like Taylor Hendricks or John Collins at the five spot for stretches. How the team adapts schematically will be a major storyline.
The immediate focus is the final preseason contest against the San Antonio Spurs at home on October 12. This game serves as the last dress rehearsal before the regular season and a critical chance to test any new lineup configurations. After that, the real challenge begins with Nurkic watching from the sidelines. The early schedule is a test of the team's depth and resilience.
Managing Nurkic's recovery will be essential. A partial plantar plate tear requires careful rehab to avoid setbacks. The Jazz medical staff will be cautious, aiming for a full return in November. In the meantime, the opportunity arises for another player to step up and claim minutes. The front office's decision in the coming days will signal their confidence in the current roster or their desire for an external fix. Fans can track the team's preparation and updated schedule on our schedule page.
