The Phoenix Suns will have to adjust their frontcourt rotation after starting center Mark Williams underwent surgery to repair a torn labrum.
Williams is expected to miss several months of the upcoming season, leaving Phoenix without its regular starter for an extended stretch.
His absence creates a significant opportunity for second-year center Khaman Maluach.
The young big man saw limited playing time last season, but his performance during the 2026 Summer League provided encouraging signs about his development.
Maluach averaged 19.5 points per game in Las Vegas while shooting 40.0% from three-point range.
He also made a major impact on the glass, collecting 12.8 rebounds per game. That rebounding production could be especially important for Phoenix.
The Suns are projected to have issues controlling the boards, meaning Maluach’s ability to consistently rebound could determine whether he can secure the starting center position while Williams recovers.
With Williams sidelined for months, Maluach now has an opportunity to turn his strong Summer League showing into a much larger role during his second NBA season.
