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Suns putting all hope in Khaman Maluach is a scary leap of faith

The Suns are backing Khaman Maluach to be a massive success in The Valley this season, but they don't actually have any other choice but to do so.

Published: Wednesday, 30 September 2026 at 8:35 PM
Suns putting all hope in Khaman Maluach is a scary leap of faith
Key Things to Know
  • Luke Duffy argues the Phoenix Suns are taking a risky leap of faith by relying heavily on Khaman Maluach.
  • Phoenix is pushing the 20-year-old center into a prominent role following an injury to Mark Williams.
  • Maluach played under 8.9 minutes per game across 46 regular-season appearances during his rookie season.
The Story in 60 Seconds

Writer Luke Duffy argues that the Phoenix Suns are taking a risky leap of faith by placing high expectations on 20-year-old center Khaman Maluach. Following an injury to Mark Williams, Phoenix is reportedly relying heavily on the second-year center despite him playing under 8.9 minutes per game across 46 appearances during his rookie campaign.

Duffy notes that the Suns have few alternative options due to a lack of future assets, leaving Maluach as a projected starter alongside Devin Booker, Jalen Green, Dillon Brooks, and Miles Bridges. Phoenix has also included Oso Ighodaro and training-camp signee Duop Reath in their center rotation as they prepare to open against the Portland Trail Blazers.

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