Phoenix Suns center Jusuf Nurkic hasn't played since Jan. 7 at Charlotte but was available for Saurday's game.

Miami forward Jimmy Butler appeared to nod at trade rumors of a move to Phoenix, turning out for the Heat’s 116-107 loss to the Portland Trail Blazers on Tuesday in a pair of Suns-themed colorway shoes.

The Phoenix Suns continue their three-game homestand Monday against the Los Angeles Clippers at Footprint Center in what will be their third matchup of the season. The Suns are 2-0 against the Clippers, winning both games in October at the new Intuit Dome.

It has already been reported by several outlets that the Suns have interest in trading for Charlotte Hornets backup big man Nick Richards. On Monday, Arizona Sports' John Gambadoro reported that Phoenix is also interested in Portland Trail Blazers center Duop Reath.

The Portland Trail Blazers are among the bottom feeders in the league and the Western Conference.  The Blazers will likely stay at the bottom for the remainder

This affiliate content is not influenced by our advertising relationships, but AP and Data Skrive might earn commissions from our partners’ links in this content.

Portland Trail Blazers face crucial roster decisions as veterans struggle and young core seeks room to develop. Inside look at the team's challenges and priorities before the trade deadline.

This affiliate content is not influenced by our advertising relationships, but AP and Data Skrive might earn commissions from our partners’ links in this content.

SportsLine's model just revealed its NBA predictions for Portland Trail Blazers vs. Charlotte Hornets on Friday

Nurkic said he and Suns coach Mike Budenholzer didn’t talk for two months. This is consistent with him saying Budenholzer didn’t inform him about a decision not to play him Jan. 9 against Atlanta.

It should only be a matter of time before Jimmy Butler secures a trade away from the Heat, if this Suns hint is any indication.